This proposal describes the development of computer programs for circuit simulation based on quantum effect devices. Transient quantum effects are obtained through solutions to the time dependent Wigner equation from which device parameters will be extracted. The development of small signal and large signal applications will be simulated with input and output obtained through a newly developed Windows Graphical User Interface. The long-term goal is the development of Windows and Unix based software packages enabling engineering design of advanced devices and circuits to be realized. The device emphasized in this study is the Resonant Tunneling Diode, which has developed to the point where it is being considered for high speed digital circuits operating at 100 GHz, far beyond the upper frequency limits of silicon CMOS technology (i.e. 1 GHz). The emphasis in this study is the GUI development, incorporation of transient electron and hole transport, device hysterisis, small and large signal circuit elements, output power calculations, contributions from spatially dependent effective mass, the role of dissipation, contacts, coupled devices, and demonstration of the use of the simulation in a 100GHz logic circuit.
Benefits: The quantum device software will play a key role in evaluating novel circuit architectures, with respect to such features as overall circuit speed and power dissipation. Commercial interests, developing digital and analog technology where ultra-low dissipation power and small size is essential, will use this product. The software will be used as a teaching tool.
