Polarity reversal in the detected output of a point-contact diode at submillimetre wavelengths

Anomalies in the detected output-voltage polarity of point-contact diodes at submillimetre wavelengths have been observed and are thought to be due to two competing mechanisms: (a) Schottky rectification, and (b) thermoeletric effect of heated majority carriers in the region of the junction. Optimisation of point-contact diodes for the thermoelectric effect may produce improved n.e.p.s. at submillimetre wavelengths.