Science

Silicon Out, Graphene In?

Physicists at the University of Maryland have demonstrated that graphene, a single-atom-thick sheet of graphite, has a greater ability to conduct electricity than any other known material at room temperature. In fact, electrons can travel up to 100 times faster in graphine than silicon, making it a likely candidate to replace it as a semiconductor material in devices like computer chips and sensors.


March 18, 2008
Cameras

Samsung 8MP Mobile Phone Module is World’s Slimmest

Good news for those who rely on their mobile phones for their photo- taking needs; Samsung has just unveiled the world’s slimmest 8MP CMOS, which measures a diminutive, 28mm × 15.3mm × 8.5mm. The semiconductor was designed specifically for mobile phones, and it will push handsets beyond their current 5MP restraints. [Ed: 5MP as the limit in slimmer phones.]The new module, which is 10% more compact than current solutions, will have an ISO 1600 sensitivity, anti-shake capability, face detection technology, 1-cm macro and an automated shoot mode that is activated by silly, smiling faces.