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Micrometer-scale electromechanical systems are now widely used in various electronic devices in everyday use, but nanometer-scale electromechanical systems remain at the laboratory stage due to the lack of autonomous power. French researchers have invented a nanoscale alternator, opening up broad prospects for the practical application of nanoscale electromechanical systems. According to materials released recently by the French **Institute of Science, the nanoscale generator invented by the institute’s researchers consists mainly of a silicon carbide nanowire, along with two wires for the output and input of electronic signals. The principle involves applying sufficient direct current to silicon carbide nanowires, which generates a magnetic field that induces autonomous oscillation and swinging, thereby providing power for nanoscale electromechanical systems. As is well known, electronic devices require power to function. For example, an electronic watch, which is a type of micro-scale electromechanical device, requires direct current supplied by a battery to cause the quartz crystal to oscillate, thereby ensuring its proper operation. However, in nanoscale electromechanical systems, it has long been difficult to find means to generate oscillations or provide autonomous power, forcing reliance on external power sources at the micrometer scale – which is also a major obstacle to the further miniaturization of electronic devices. Experts from the French **Institute of Science say that their invention will help advance the ultra-miniaturization of electronic products, and it could find applications in areas such as radar and mobile communications.