Abstract

This paper provides an overview of research developments toward nanometer scale electronic switching devices for use in digital circuits. Specifically, two classes of alternatives to the field-effect transistor are considered: (1) quantum-effect and single electron solid-state devices and (2) molecular electronic devices. A taxonomy of devices in each class is provided, operational principles are described and compared for the various types of devices. This work has been performed at Department of Electronics & Telecommunications, Faculty of Physics, HCM University of Natural Sciences.