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 10 3 A/cm 2 .