High-power in-phase and anti-phase mode emission from linear arrays of resonant-tunneling-diode oscillators in the 0.4-to-0.8-THz frequency range

Abstract

Oscillators based on resonant tunneling diodes (RTDs) are able to reach the highest oscillation frequency among all electronic THz emitters. However, the emitted power from RTDs remains limited. Here, we propose linear RTD oscillator arrays capable of supporting coherent emission from both in-phase and anti-phase coupled modes. The oscillation modes can be selected by adjusting the mesa areas of the RTDs. Both the modes exhibit constructive interference at different angles in the far field, enabling high-power emission. Experimental demonstrations of coherent emission from linear arrays containing 11 RTDs are presented. The anti-phase mode oscillates at ∼450 GHz, emitting about 0.7 mW, while the in-phase mode oscillates at around 750 GHz, emitting about 1 mW. Moreover, certain RTD oscillator arrays exhibit dual-band operation: changing the bias voltage allows for controllable switching between the anti-phase and in-phase modes. Upon bias sweeping in both directions, a notable hysteresis feature is observed. Our linear RTD oscillator array represents a significant step forward in the realization of large arrays for applications requiring continuous-wave THz radiation with substantial power.