Enhanced optical frequency detection with negative differential resistance in metal-barrier-metal point-contact diodes

Abstract
Enhanced optically induced voltages have been observed across the junction of metal‐barrier‐metal point‐contact diodes which exhibit a current‐controlled negative differential resistance. Responsivities in excess of 5 V/W have been demonstrated when the incident optical beam is focused to ∼1 W/cm2 at the junction. This enhancement is in agreement with the behavior expected from the rectification of the optical field.