Correlated electron-hole transport in capacitively-coupled one-dimensional tunnel junction arrays

Correlated electron-hole transport in two capacitively-coupled one-dimensional tunnel junction arrays is studied by simulation. A simple model of the orthodox theory in conjunction with the theory of cotunneling is applied. The conflict between existing theories about the three-junction array circuit is resolved by carefully examining the dynamic process of charge transport. We evaluate the accuracy of correlated electron-hole transport. Accuracy is improved and high-precision correlated transport occurs over a wider range as the arrays get longer. The response speed of the circuit is not very fast and the transient response does not follow steady-state characteristics when driven fast. Our simulation shows that dynamic analysis is important in studying structures of tunnel junction arrays. As an example of applications, the operation of a dc current transformer that consists of two capacitively coupled tunnel junction arrays is presented. Problems in integrating the circuit into a larger system are also discussed.