Frequency modulation of spin torque oscillator pairs

The current controlled modulation of nanocontact based spin torque oscillator (STO) pairs is studied in both the synchronized and nonsynchronized states. The synchronized state shows a well behaved modulation and demonstrates robust mutual locking even under strong modulation. The power distribution of the modulation sidebands can be quantitatively described by assuming a single oscillator model. However, in the nonsynchronized state, the modulation sidebands are not well described by the model, indicating interactions between the two individual nanocontact STOs. These findings are promising for potential applications requiring the modulation of large synchronized STO arrays. (C) 2011 American Institute of Physics. [doi: 10.1063/1.3588218]