Nanomagnetic Boolean Logic-The Tempered (and Realistic) Vision

The idea of nanomagnetic Boolean logic was advanced more than two decades ago. It envisaged the use of nanomagnets with two stable magnetization orientations as the primitive binary switch for implementing logic gates and ultimately combinational/sequential circuits. Enthusiastic proclamations of how nanomagnetic logic will eclipse traditional (transistor-based) logic circuits proliferated the applied physics literature. Two decades later there is not a single viable nanomagnetic logic chip in sight, let alone one that is a commercial success. In this perspective article, I offer my reasons for why this has come to pass. I present a realistic and tempered vision of nanomagnetic logic, pointing out many misconceptions about this paradigm, flaws in some proposals that appeared in the literature, shortcomings, and likely pitfalls that might stymie progress in this field.

Automated summary

The development of nanomagnetic logic has not achieved the initial expected success, despite enthusiastic proclamations, there is currently no viable commercial nanomagnetic logic chip. The article points out misconceptions, flaws in proposals, and potential challenges that may hinder progress in this field.