Current-driven quantum switch

ORAL

Abstract

As a key component of a ballistic quantum switch proposed by Mel'nikov and Vinokur [Nature {\bf 415}, 60 (2002)], we realize the current-driven {\it giant-vortex splitting} in a mesoscopic superconducting square, in a given perpendicular magnetic field. We also demonstrate the controllable {\it current-induced transitions} between the states with different angular momenta, which provide the stepwise behavior of the up-down sample conductance as a function of applied current (not field). Theoretical simulations using time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau theory are fully corroborated by transport measurements, where vortex states are monitored using the small-tunnel-junction technique.

*This work was supported by the Flemish Science Foundation (FWO-Vl), the Belgian Science Policy, and the Sumitomo Foundation.

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Authors

  • Milorad Milosevic

    • Departement Ftsica, Universiteit Antwerpen, Belgium
    • Departement Fysica, Universiteit Antwerpen, Belgium

  • A. Kanda

    • Institute of Physics and TIMS, University of Tsukuba, Japan

  • S. Hatsumi Hatsumi

    • Institute of Physics and TIMS, University of Tsukuba, Japan

  • F.M. Peeters

    • Departement Ftsica, Universiteit Antwerpen, Belgium

  • Y. Ootuka

    • Institute of Physics and TIMS, University of Tsukuba, Japan