Instrumentation

The first Agilent-equipped terahertz measurement laboratory in Europe has been opened at the University of Leeds. The new laboratory will enable research on devices, components, circuits and systems at much higher frequencies than any other institution in the region has been able to do before, claims the company.

The Agilent 1.1-THz PNA network analyser is the centrepiece of the new lab. This supports a broad range of projects in nanoelectronics, complemented by a new electron-beam lithography facility. In the new field of graphene, the network analyser will allow the university staff to perform on-wafer terahertz measurements of transistors, THz biosensors, magnetic storage elements, THz spin-switches and novel acoustoelectric devices. It will also be used to characterise THz passive components such as filters, waveguides, fibres and antennas.

The lab has been set up in memory of professor Roger Pollard, former dean of engineering at the University of Leeds and a long-time friend of Agilent, who passed away at the end of last year.

“Roger Pollard had a long history of collaboration with Agilent, spanning more than 30 years, and held the Agilent Technologies chair in high-frequency measurements,” said professor Peter Jimack. “We are extremely grateful to Agilent for its continued support and, in particular, for the generous sponsorship of this exceptionally well-equipped laboratory in recognition of Roger’s contribution to Agilent’s success.”

www.agilent.co.uk