University of Utah Engineers Create Filter for Wireless Communications Using Inkjet Printer

University of Utah engineers have discovered a new approach for designing filters capable of separating different frequencies in the terahertz spectrum, the next generation of communications bandwidth that could allow cellphone users and Internet surfers to download data a thousand times faster than today. Once the filter is designed, it can be fabricated using an off-the-shelf inkjet printer.

Filtering out different frequencies will be important in the development of the terahertz spectrum for communications. By filtering out unwanted frequencies users can download information from the Internet or talk on a cellphone, for example, with less noise or interfering signals.

The terahertz range refers to the band of frequencies between infrared light and radio waves. Engineers consider it the next frontier in communications because of the enormous potential for boosting data transmission rates. The technology also is being studied for next-generation medical imaging and airport scanners. Terahertz rays, or T-rays, can pass through many materials without using ionizing radiation, which makes them attractive for use in medical imaging and security screening devices.

This new methodology for creating filters was published in a paper on Feb 27 in The Optical Society’s online journal, Optica.

Read this full press release in the U News Center.