Innovations: Patents, processes, and products

Some high-power solid-state amplifiers for advanced communications systems generate heat at anywhere from 50 to 350 watts per square inch, more than enough to boil water. Getting rid of the heat fast, so that the component doesn´t burn out, can be a major design challenge. Furthermore, dissipation that lowers the operating temperature doubles the component´s reliability and lifetime for each 10°C drop.