Nanotechnology in Computing and Communication
摘要
This chapter discusses how atomic-scale engineering techniques, including Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy (STM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), could enable nanoscale transistors and circuits. Such are critical elements that support the trajectory of the Moore’s Law phenomenon, both higher computing capacities and lower power consumption accompanied by faster processing speeds. The application of nanotechnology to communication systems led the way towards high-speed, low-energy consumption networks that can be applied in quantum communication and highly secured data transmissions, demonstrating the possibility of material manipulation at such scales to create devices with far superior performance, efficiency, and miniaturization capability, which is necessary for the next generation of computing and communication technologies. The chapter will discuss more general implications, such as the integration of nanomaterials into flexible electronics, nanoscale sensors, and molecular-scale circuits that may profoundly change communication and computation. Questions of scalability and reproducibility, as well as some ethical dilemmas related to the challenge of nanotechnology changing the prognosis of society and the environment, are also found in the chapter. This chapter is based on a critical analysis of recent work, new developments, and opportunities in nanotechnology to underline its revolutionary potential for computing and communication. Foundations for such developments redefining technology capacities and applications exist in diverse domains.