Electrical properties of multi p-n junction devices

The electrical properties of multi p-n junction devices are analyzed. It is found that this type of device possesses bistable characteristics similar to that of a Shockley diode and thus provides an alternative realization of devices for switching applications. The inherently greater current gains involved in the operations of such a device yield in principle higher breakover voltages and higher holding currents. Furthermore, the incorporation of heterostructures in this device introduces a new degree of freedom in tailoring their switching characteristics. Multi p-n heterojunction devices operating as SCR lasers were fabricated, and the experimental results are presented.