Contactless Capacitive Adiabatic Logic

Abstract : CMOS technology allows a femto Joule energy dissipation per logic operation, if operated at optimal frequency and voltage. However, this value remains orders of magnitude above the theoretical limit predicted by Lan-dauer. In this work, we present a new paradigm for low power computation, based on variable capacitors. Such components can be implemented with existing MEMS technologies. We show how a smooth capacitance modulation allows an energy-efficient transfer of information through the circuit. By removing electrical contacts, our method limits the current leakages and the associated energy loss. Therefore, capacitive logic must be able to achieve extremely low power dissipation when driven adiabatically. Contactless capacitive logic also promises a better reliability than systems based on MEMS nanorelays.