Molecular and Nanoscale Computing and Technology

7 ConclusionIn this chapter, we have presented an overview of various nanoscale and molecular computing architectures. We have given a brief tutorial on various existing nanoscale and molecular devices. These include molecular switches, resonant tunnel diodes, tunnel diodes, single electron transistors, carbon nanotube field-effect transistors, quantum dots, and spin systems. We have next discussed a set of nanoscale computing modules, such as quantum and spin-based cellular logic arrays, and molecular-based cellular automata, all made from the switches presented here. These modules are an integral part of the hierarchical 3-D multiscale architecture presented. We have also showed a set of quantum and molecular self-assembled structures including molecular crossbars. The fabrication of these architectures currently faces a number of challenges, as discussed in this chapter. Nanoscale and molecular computing is a promising alternative to today’s CMOS technology but is in an infancy stage, with many interesting design issues yet to be studied and resolved.