report
8.8.1 Definition

This ICT sector sub-report "Beyond CMOS" examines nanotechnology-based functions that, in the long term, will complement or replace conventional silicon technology. Short to medium-term developments in CMOS integrated circuits are discussed in sub-report "Integrated circuits".

Nanoelectronics refers to the use of nanotechnology in electronic components. It is not just the next evolutionary step in continuous development, but has the power to become a disruptive technology, introducing completely new capabilities and ways of operation. Significant breakthroughs can be expected in the long term from the progress in nanometre-sized features.

This report reviews nanotechnology enabled developments in future computing devices, describing some alternative candidate concepts for logic devices and information processing devices. The development of memories is discussed in ICT sector sub-report "Memory".

In addition, the discussion is extended to include issues on heterogenous intelligent system development (integration of functions beyond computing, such as sensing, power, communication).

This overview report is based on the research priorities and extensive technology assessments reported in the ENIAC Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) and ITRS 2007 Editions on Emerging Research Devices (ERD) and Emerging Research Materials (ERM).