Researchers recently developed a simple circuit that can receive twice as much data and can double the speed of compact wireless devices like smartphones.

What makes this new circuit unique is that it doesn't rely on magnets. Circulators have been magnetic-based for the past 60 years.

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A circulator is a passive non-reciprocal three- or four-port device. A microwave or radio frequency signal entering a circulator port is transmitted to the next port in rotation (only). A circuit is any line or conductor that transmits information..

Magnetic materials are heavy and expensive. They occupy large spaces, which doesn't go well with the handy smartphones widely used today.

Also, radios must transmit data at different times to avoid incoming signals. Radios can't send and receive data at the same time.

This new circuit allows 'full-duplex' communications, which means the simultaneous sending and receiving of radio signals between devices.

Another unique feature is the new circulator can be tuned-in to a wide range of frequencies with real-time tuning.

Unlike magnet-based circulators, the magnet-free circuit is very simple, compact and light. It's only 2 centimeters wide.

"It's ideal for a cell phone," says Andrea Alù, the associate professor who led the research.

With no magnets, the circuit contains only the conventional components of a circuit. Smartphones will perform twice as fast and the modifications wouldn't cost much.

This new research was published in the journal Nature Physics. While the research is seen as a great development, researchers are still looking for ways to use the new circuit commercially.

Tagscircuit, smartphone speed, circulator, Mobile Internet