Posted 12.22.2010 at 1:05 pm
7 Comments
Nano Radio
via arXiv
A graphene sheet stretched among three electrodes is the tiniest device to directly receive radio signals, researchers say. Nanoscale radio receivers could be useful for sensing, physics studies and radio signal processing, which could even make them useful for mobile phones.
Stretched between two electrodes and hovering over a third, the graphene sheet works like a trampoline, resonating in response to a voltage that changes with radio frequency signals. The effect can be monitored by measuring the capacitance between the sheet and the third electrode.
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Technology, Rebecca Boyle, electrodes, graphene, nano technology, radio frequencies, radio waves, radiosThe technique is two orders of magnitude faster than the typical radio signal mixing method. The researchers were able to read out a radio signal of 33.27 MHz, but they say a smaller, improved device could reach the GHz range.
The biggest drawback: the nano radio works at -321° F, so it will need some tweaks before it can be used in communications devices.
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"The biggest drawback: the nano radio works at -321° F, so it will need some tweaks before it can be used in communications devices." - Aw crap!
Although this isn't ready for consumer products, maybe useful for new space based communication devices for ISS or Satellites? I'm just thinking it would be cold enough to sustain the technologies needs consistently. Considering the size I don't think long range would be practical, but there are many devices on these platforms that need to talk to each other.
@Igot1forya-
I had the exact same thought. This is pretty awesome and I'm excited to see what areas they'll apply this to.
So a fleet of these set as a listening station would be perfect to deploy to a planet (psudo-planet) like Pluto where that temp requirement is met without any outside cooling devices needed.
It looks similar to a audio speaker, sounds similar too.
The article says that this is the tiniest device to receive a radio signal, but in fact EVERYTHING receives radio signals. This is the smallest device to disseminate radio signals of a certain spectrum. Mightn't we use this as partial tech to turn a couple of really cold gas giants into two-way radios that never need plugging in? A science fair intergalactic stereo.