News Article
Element Six and Filtronic to develop high-frequency diamond electronic devices
Diamond Microwave Devices (DMD) is a new subsidiary set up by Element Six, a Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) diamond technology developer.
Diamond Microwave Devices (DMD) is a new subsidiary set up by Element Six, a Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) diamond technology developer. This new company aims to develop novel diamond semiconductor materials and processing technology that will help create the next generation of high-power, high temperature semiconductor devices for use in microwave power amplifiers and transmitters.
At the same time, Element Six (E6) has signed a collaboration agreement with Filtronic plc to work with DMD and develop this exciting new technology. Filtronic and E6 will use their complementary high-technology strengths in materials, semiconductor device processing and circuits to expedite the development of this new microwave technology which has the potential of revolutionising microwave power electronics.
For high power electronics, CVD diamond offers properties such as high breakdown voltage and high temperature operation. If a practical semiconductor device can be demonstrated, it could have the potential to provide superior microwave power and higher operating temperatures than existing semiconductor devices and technologies. E6 has been involved with major research and industrial programmes such as the Department of Trade and Industry sponsored CAPE (CArbon Power Electronics) programme aimed at overcoming the technical challenges of developing diamond-based electronics components.
Dr Richard Lang, General Manager of DMD, has said; “Whilst the technical challenges are high, a diamond MESFET could revolutionise the design of future microwave power modules. There is much work to be done in order to realise a practical device, and we are excited by the opportunity to explore the boundaries of this emerging technology.” Mr Christian Hultner, CEO of E6, notes, “Diamond has the potential to be the ultimate semiconductor for high-frequency, high-power electronic applications. The establishment of DMD provides greater momentum to our activities in this area and will accelerate the development of practical devices”
