Nanotransistors: Science and Technology

Course Description

Welcome to the fascinating world of nanotransistors! This course delves into the cutting-edge realm of nanoscale transistors, which have revolutionized modern electronics. The transistor, often hailed as the greatest invention of the 20th century, has shaped our world in countless ways. This course offers a unique opportunity to understand the essential physics behind these remarkable nano-devices, providing a conceptual framework that is both accessible and comprehensive.

What You'll Learn

• Transistor fundamentals, including IV characteristics and device metrics
• MOS electrostatics in one and two dimensions
• The Landauer Approach to electron transport
• The transmission theory of the MOSFET and its relation to traditional and Virtual Source transistor models
• A deep understanding of how nanoscale transistors operate
• Practical technological considerations and fundamental limits of nanotransistors

Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of semiconductor physics
• No prior familiarity with electronics or transistors is assumed

Course Content

• Transistor fundamentals
• Transistor electrostatics
• Ballistic MOSFETs
• Transmission theory of the MOSFET
• The physics of nanoscale transistors
• The flow of electrons at the nanoscale
• Practical applications and limitations of nanotransistors

Who Should Take This Course

• Advanced undergraduates in science or engineering
• Beginning graduate students
• Researchers in related fields
• Practicing engineers and scientists
• Anyone seeking a sound, physical, but simple understanding of nanoscale transistor operation

Real-World Applications

• Designing and optimizing electronic devices
• Advancing research in nanotechnology and semiconductor physics
• Developing cutting-edge electronic systems
• Improving energy efficiency in electronic devices
• Contributing to innovations in fields such as computing, telecommunications, and renewable energy
• Understanding and predicting future trends in electronics and nanotechnology

Syllabus

• Weeks 1 & 2: Transistor Fundamentals
• Weeks 3 & 4: MOS Electrostatistics
• Weeks 5 & 6: The Ballistic Nanotransistor
• Weeks 7 & 8: The Transmission Theory of the MOSFET

This course is part of the nanoHUB-U project, jointly funded by Purdue and NSF, which aims to transcend disciplines through short, accessible courses. By enrolling in this course, you'll gain invaluable insights into the world of nanotransistors, positioning yourself at the forefront of this exciting and rapidly evolving field. Don't miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and skills in a area that's shaping the future of technology!