Fermi-level managed barrier diode for broadband and low-noise terahertz-wave detection

A novel Fermi-level managed barrier diode has been developed for achieving broadband and low-noise terahertz-wave detection. The fabricated quasi-optical module detected signals at frequencies from 200 GHz to 1 THz. The typical voltage sensitivity was 1020 V/W, and the current sensitivity for a 50 Ω load was 4.5 A/W at 300 GHz for a zero-biased condition. Square-law detection with good linearity was demonstrated at 300 GHz with an output current density exceeding 10³ A/cm².