Single Abrikosov vortices as quantized information bits.

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Computer Engineering

Background:

• Superconducting digital devices offer reduced power dissipation and increased speed for future supercomputers.
• Non-volatile quantized states are crucial for classical Boolean logic implementation.
• Quantized Abrikosov vortices are the most compact magnetic objects in superconductors, enabling high-density digital cryoelectronics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a proof of concept for a random access memory cell based on Abrikosov vortices.
• To demonstrate the use of a single vortex as an information bit for memory applications.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication and characterization of a novel Abrikosov-vortex-based memory cell.
• Demonstration of high-endurance write operations.
• Implementation and testing of two distinct read-out mechanisms using a spin valve and a Josephson junction.

Main Results:

• The Abrikosov-vortex memory cell functions as a proof of concept for information storage.
• High-endurance write operations were successfully demonstrated.
• Two read-out methods (spin valve and Josephson junction) were validated.
• The memory cells exhibit infinite magnetoresistance between 0 and 1 states, short access times, nm-scale scalability, and extremely low write energy.
• Non-volatility and perfect reproducibility are inherent properties due to the quantized nature of the vortex.

Conclusions:

• Abrikosov vortex-based memory cells represent a promising technology for high-density digital cryoelectronics.
• These memory cells offer significant advantages including non-volatility, high endurance, and low energy consumption.
• The demonstrated technology has the potential to advance the development of future supercomputers and high-performance computing.