Nanotechnology, a relatively recent development, is already a rapidly expanding applied science. Breakthroughs in the late 20th century, particularly in the field of surface imaging at the atomic level, have enabled scientists and engineers to make significant technological advances in a diverse range of industrial sectors. This includes, communications, food science, medicine, microelectronics, environmental science, biology, transportation, energy, aerospace, and much more.

The key advantage of nanotechnology is that it makes it possible to adapt the structures of materials, at an exceedingly small scale, to deliver specific properties that extend the materials capabilities. For example, materials can be made stronger and lighter. Surface treatments can be used to reduce friction or to help make objects more durable. Materials can be developed that deliver better electrical conduction or have altered magnetic properties. Nanotechnology has allowed the development of smaller and smaller transistors, reducing electronic component sizes while increasing their capacity. The technology offers the opportunity to enhance a materials performance and usability and, as such, has already found its application in an ever expanding array of commercial products.

Spectrum digitizers and AWG's can play a key role in nanotechnology research and development. Their ability to acquire or generate precision electronic signals allows them to be utilized in a wide variety of ways. For example, Spectrum digitizers offer the high bandwidths (up to 1.5 GHz) and fast sampling rates (up to 5 GS/s) that are needed to acquire and analyze electronic signals from DC to the GHz range. Their versatile signal conditioning and high resolution analog-to-digital conversion capabilities (up to 16 bits) also allows them to detect and measure extremely small, low level signals. Similarly, for situations were precise, stable, high dynamic range signal generation is required Spectrum AWG's can be deployed to deliver exceptionally versatile performance.