Research Bits: March 26


Skyrmion switches Researchers from the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and National University of Singapore harnessed skyrmions to build a switch that has the potential to process data faster while using significantly less energy. Skyrmions are magnetic whirls that form in very thin metal layers and can be efficiently moved between magnetic regions. Using a magnetic tun... » read more

Power/Performance Bits: Jan. 11


Quantum dot transistors Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory and University of California Irvine used quantum dots to create transistors which can be assembled into functional logic circuits. "Potential applications of the new approach to electronic devices based on non-toxic quantum dots include printable circuits, flexible displays, lab-on-a-chip diagnostics, wearable devices, me... » read more

Power/Performance Bits: Aug. 29


Colored solar panels Researchers from AMOLF, the University of Amsterdam (UvA) and the Energy Research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) developed a technology to create efficient bright green solar panels in the hopes that a greater array of colors will prompt greater adoption among architects and builders who might see the traditional blue or black panels as an eyesore. The panels have a gr... » read more

System Bits: June 10


Graphene for dummies EPFL researchers have developed a “how-to” manual for making the most efficient optical graphene circuits possible that facilitates and accelerates technological development in this future field. Graphene holds great promise as the basis for new chips that are faster, better-performing and more compact. For example, graphene makes it possible to design systems that ... » read more