Single-electron transistor may be quantum leap for memory/processors

A TEAM led by researchers from the University of Pittsburgh has created a single-electron transistor would could be the basis of quantum computer components.The device is called SketchSET, or sketch-based single-electron transistor.
 It is the first single-electron transistor made entirely of oxide-based materials. Its central component which measures 1.5nm in diameter operates with only one or two electrons, and the number of electrons in residence results in distinct conductive properties. Wires extending from the transistor carry additional electrons across the island. The sheer scale of the transistor means many of them can be fitted into a small space, opening the way for ultradense memories and quantum processors, providing an exponential leap in computing capabilities over current technology.

The researchers say the central island can also be used as an artificial atom for developing new classes of artificial electronic materials, such as exotic superconductors with properties not found in natural materials.

The single-electron transistor is its extremely sensitive to an electric charge. The transistor can also act as a solid-state memory in its ferroelectric state. 

The ferroelectric state can, in the absence of external power, control the number of electrons on the island, which in turn can be used to represent the 1 or 0 state of a memory element. A computer memory based on this property would be able to retain information even when the processor itself is powered down.

More: http://www.electronicsnews.com.au/news/single-electron-transistor-may-be-quantum-leap-for