- #1
chromosome24
- 24
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what is the highest attainable frequencie by an oscillator circuit? 
Highest attainable frequencies by a transmitter
- Thread starter chromosome24
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the highest attainable frequencies by oscillator circuits, exploring various technologies and methods for generating electromagnetic waves, including the potential for visible light emissions and gamma rays.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants suggest that the highest frequency achievable by a semiconductor oscillator could reach around 200 GHz, with potential for terahertz frequencies using multipliers.
- There is mention of photomixing as a method to produce intermediate frequencies in the terahertz range by mixing two lasers.
- A participant questions the possibility of an oscillator emitting frequencies in the visible spectrum or higher, prompting further discussion on the topic.
- A gas laser is identified as an example of an oscillator that produces visible wavelengths.
- Another participant raises the idea of emitting visible light from an antenna, leading to a discussion about the nature of electromagnetic waves and antennas.
- It is noted that electromagnetic waves at any frequency can theoretically be generated through various methods, including particle accelerators for gamma rays.
- One participant humorously suggests building a radio transmitter to emit cosmic waves, which is met with clarification about the limitations of simple antennas in producing gamma rays.
- Concerns are raised about the size limitations of antennas, particularly in relation to the wavelengths of gamma rays being much shorter than atomic dimensions.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a range of views on the feasibility of generating high-frequency electromagnetic waves, with some agreeing on the potential of various technologies while others contest the practicality of using simple antennas for certain frequencies.
Contextual Notes
Limitations include the dependence on specific technologies and methods for frequency generation, as well as unresolved questions about the practicalities of emitting certain frequencies from antennas.
Who May Find This Useful
Individuals interested in oscillator technology, electromagnetic wave generation, and the theoretical limits of frequency production may find this discussion relevant.
- #2
waht
- 1,502
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Depends on what technology is used. If you are talking about an oscillator built from a semiconductor devices then the frequency of a free running oscillator might be like 200 GHz without any frequency multipliers. With multipliers you can boost the frequency to a few Terahertz.
Then there is what's called a photomixing, where they use a special mixer to mix 2 lasers to produce IF in the Terehertz range.
Then there is what's called a photomixing, where they use a special mixer to mix 2 lasers to produce IF in the Terehertz range.
- #3
chromosome24
- 24
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is it possible to have an oscillator that produces frequencies in the visible spectrum or higher? if not why?
- #4
berkeman
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A gas laser is an example of a visible wavelength oscillator.
- #5
chromosome24
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yes, but what I am trying to say is that is it possible to emmite visible light out of an antenna.
- #6
waht
- 1,502
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Your eyes have antennas or cones that are of a specific lengths that resonate at red, green and blue frequencies. The wavelength is the size of the cell basically.
You are asking what is the highest attainable frequency by an oscillator? Well, an electromagnetic wave at any frequency can be achieved by different methods.
Gamma rays at the end of the electormagnetic spectrum are generated by a radioactive decay.
The highest ever frequency detected eminated from cosmic rays which was a single proton carrying energy of 50 Joules.
You are asking what is the highest attainable frequency by an oscillator? Well, an electromagnetic wave at any frequency can be achieved by different methods.
Gamma rays at the end of the electormagnetic spectrum are generated by a radioactive decay.
The highest ever frequency detected eminated from cosmic rays which was a single proton carrying energy of 50 Joules.
- #7
chromosome24
- 24
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so theoreticaly i could build a something like a radio transmitter except have it transmit cosmic waves?
- #8
chroot
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It's true, in general, that waves of any frequency can be manufactured with methods that vary from simple RF electronics up to particle accelerators. It is not true, however, that you can use something like a simple dipole antenna to produce gamma rays.
- Warren
- Warren
- #9
chromosome24
- 24
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why is that?
- #10
NoTime
Science Advisor
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Size for one thing.chromosome24 said:
The smallest conceivable dipole is probably 2 atoms.
Gamma is quite a bit shorter than the diameter of a single atom.
- #11
chromosome24
- 24
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aaaaaahhhhhhhhhhh. i see. thanks for the info fellas and/or ladies.