# Mechanical On-Chip Microwave Circulator

**Authors:** S. Barzanjeh, M. Wulf, M. Peruzzo, M. Kalaee, P. B. Dieterle, O. Painter, J. M. Fink  
**arXiv:** [1706.0376](https://arxiv.org/abs/1706.0376)  
**Date:** 2017-06-01  
**Summary page:** https://www.summarizepaper.com/en/paper/1706.0376v1/

## Key points

- Nonreciprocal circuit elements are essential for enabling directional signal flow in modern measurement and communication systems.
- These elements break time-reversal symmetry using methods such as magnetic materials or the quantum Hall effect.
- A team of researchers has created a magnetic-free circulator that operates without traditional magnetic components.
- The circulator is compact, compatible with superconducting qubits and silicon photonics technologies, and offers high efficiency in signal processing applications.
- It features tunable bandwidth and in-situ reconfigurability capabilities, making it ideal for integrated on-chip signal processing and readout functions.
- This development represents a significant advancement in nonreciprocal circuit elements for enhancing performance in measurement and communication systems.

## Summary

In the realm of modern measurement and communication systems, nonreciprocal circuit elements play a crucial role by enabling directional signal flow. These elements require the breaking of time-reversal symmetry through various methods such as magnetic materials or quantum Hall effect. A team of researchers has now developed a groundbreaking on-chip magnetic-free circulator that operates without the need for magnetic components. This compact device is compatible with superconducting qubits and silicon photonics technologies and boasts high efficiency in signal processing applications. With tunable bandwidth and in-situ reconfigurability capabilities, this circulator holds immense potential for advancing integrated on-chip signal processing and readout functionalities. Overall, this research represents a significant step forward in developing nonreciprocal circuit elements for improved performance in measurement and communication systems.