Accoutrements of a molecular computer: switches, memory components and alligator clips

Several second generation memory components consisting of oligo(phenylene ethynylene)s containing easily reducible functionalities consisting of either nitro or quinone cores have been synthesized for incorporation into molecular electronic devices. Additionally, two new types of contacts between organic compounds and a metal surface based on diazonium salts or pyridine have been synthesized and integrated into molecules for use in molecular electronic devices. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. Ah rights reserved.