'Nanomechanical Oscillators' Could Lead to New Class of Computers

User rating: 4.2 / 5 after 68 vote(s)

A schematic drawing (top) and scanning electron microscope image of the nanomechanical oscillator. Figure courtesy Imran Mahboob.
A schematic drawing (top) and scanning electron microscope image of the nanomechanical oscillator. Figure courtesy Imran Mahboob.

More than 50 years ago, a graduate student in Japan conceived the “Parametron,” an electrical circuit that could form the basis for digital computers. The concept ultimately fell flat, but recently a pair of scientists gave new life to the idea, and their work could be a first step toward a nanomechanical computer that is based on mechanical rather than electrical operations.


Full story »
All News summaries from Nanotechnology news
All News summaries for May 02, 2008
Goto Archive PhysOrg Forum Goto Archive Video Goto Archive Editorials Goto Archive Free Magazines Goto Archive Newsletter

News Archive