September 2020: Researchers from IPQ/IMT have developed a novel concept for low-cost terahertz receivers that consist of a single diode in combination with a dedicated signal processing technique. In a proof-of-concept experiment, the team demonstrated transmission at a data rate of 115 Gbit/s and a carrier frequency of 0.3 THz over a distance of 110 meters. This demonstration is a first step towards future wireless networks of the 6th generation (6G) that will consist of a multitude of small radio cells that need to be connected by broadband communication links. In this context, wireless transmission at THz frequencies represents a particularly attractive and flexible solution. The results are reported in Nature Photonics (DOI: 10.1038/s41566-020-0675-0).
Original publication:
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41566-020-0675-0
KIT press release:
https://www.kit.edu/kit/pi_2020_076_terahertz-empfanger-fur-6g-mobilfunknetze.php (German)
https://www.kit.edu/kit/english/pi_2020_076_terahertz-receiver-for-6g-wireless-communications.php (English)
May 2020: IPQ researchers have demonstrated chiplet-based optical communication engines that exploit 3D-printed freeform waveguides as chip-chip connections. These so-called photonic wire bonds are fabricated in-situ onto the chips by advanced 3D lithography and can efficiently connect a wide variety of waveguide types on different integration platforms. By greatly simplifying the assembly of advanced photonic multi-chip modules, the technique has the potential to transform a variety of applications, ranging from high-speed communications and ultra-fast signal processing to optical sensing and quantum information processing.
Original publication: Light: Science & Applications
May 2020: 16 May 2020 is the 60th Anniversary of the invention of the laser by Maiman. On this occasion, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) has published a movie on important innovations related to laser light. Following the award of the Berthold Leibinger Innovationspreis to IPQ researchers in 2018, this movie also features our research on 3D-printed waveguides as one of such applications.
March, 2020: Philipp Trocha, PhD candidate at the IPQ, was recognized as Reviewer of the Month March 2020 in Nature Communications Physics for his exceptional contributions to peer review. With the award, the journal highlights the importance of a critical evaluation of new research before its publication.
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