Abstract: This invention concerns the fabrication of nanoscale and atomic scale devices. The method involves creating one or more registration markers. Using a SEM or optical microscope to form an image of the registration markers and the tip of a scanning tunnelling microscope (STM). Using the image to position and reposition the STM tip to pattern the device structure. Forming the active region of the device and then encapsulating it such that one or more of the registration markers are still visible to allow correct positioning of surface electrodes. The method can be used to form any number of device structures including quantum wires, single electron transistors, arrays or gate regions. The method can also be used to produce 3D devices by patterning subsequent layers with the STM and encapsulating in between.

Abstract: This invention concerns the fabrication of nanoscale and atomic scale devices. The method involves creating one or more registration markers. Using a SEM or optical microscope to form an image of the registration markers and the tip of a scanning tunnelling microscope (STM). Using the image to position and reposition the STM tip to pattern the device structure. Forming the active region of the device and then encapsulating it such that one or more of the registration markers are still visible to allow correct positioning of surface electrodes. The method can be used to form any number of device structures including quantum wires, single electron transistors, arrays or gate regions. The method can also be used to produce 3D devices by patterning subsequent layers with the STM and encapsulating in between.

Abstract: This invention concerns nanoscale products, such as electronic devices fabricated to nanometer accuracy. It also concerns atomic scale products. These products may have an array of electrically active dopant atoms in a silicon surface, or an encapsulated layer of electrically active donor atoms. In a further aspect the invention concerns a method of fabricating such products. The methods include forming a preselected array of donor atoms incorporated into silicon. Encapsulation by growing silicon over a doped surface, after desorbing the passivating hydrogen. Also, using an STM to view donor atoms on the silicon surface during fabrication of a nanoscale device, and measuring the electrical activity of the donor atoms during fabrication of a nanoscale device. Such products and processes are useful in the fabrication of a quantum computer, but could have many other uses.

Abstract: This invention concerns nanoscale products, such as electronic devices fabricated to nanometer accuracy. It also concerns atomic scale products. These products may have an array of electrically active dopant atoms in a silicon surface, or an encapsulated layer of electrically active donor atoms. In a further aspect the invention concerns a method of fabricating such products. The methods include forming a preselected array of donor atoms incorporated into silicon. Encapsulation by growing silicon over a doped surface, after desorbing the passivating hydrogen. Also, using an STM to view donor atoms on the silicon surface during fabrication of a nanoscale device, and measuring the electrical activity of the donor atoms during fabrication of a nanoscale device. Such products and processes are useful in the fabrication of a quantum computer, but could have many other uses.

Abstract: According to the present invention there is provided apparatus for removing a card from an opening in an electrical device. The apparatus comprises: a card including a semiconductor chip capable of making electrical connection with a contact in the opening and wherein the cards fits into the opening with substantially no part protruding therefrom and a tool that is adapted to effect removal of the card from the opening. This has the advantage that the card makes the appropriate internal contacts and can only be removed by authorized users. This stops theft of the card from retail outlets. In addition, the invention also prevents children and animals removing the card and damaging it in the home environment.