Parallel quantum-point-contacts as high-frequency-mixers

The results of high-frequency mixing experiments performed upon parallel quantum point contacts defined in the two-dimensional electron gas of an AlxGa1-xAs/GaAs heterostructure are presented. The parallel geometry, fabricated using a novel double-resist technology, enables the point-contact device to be impedance matched over a wide frequency range and, in addition, increases the power levels of the mixing signal while simultaneously reducing the parasitic source-drain capacitance. Here, we consider two parallel quantum point-contact devices with 155 and 110 point contacts, respectively; both devices operated successfully at liquid helium and Liquid nitrogen temperatures with a minimal conversion loss of 13 dB. (C) 1997 American Institute of Physics.