A computing architecture composed of field-coupled single domain nanomagnets clocked by magnetic field

Next neighbour field coupling of nanodevices is emerging as an alternative way to integrate nanoelectronic devices (Nanotechnology 1993; 4:49). In this paper, integrated circuits composed of single domain nanomagnets are proposed. New magnetic field-coupled devices with multiple equilibrium states are introduced. The devices are made locally active by exposing them to external magnetic fields. Nonreciprocity is achieved by proper design of the nanomagnet's shape together with its clocking. We demonstrate that (i) digital signal can propagate along a line of coupled single domain nanomagnets; (ii) and a family of logic circuits (inverter, majority gate, etc.) can be realized. Based on these observations we envision a new nanoelectronic computing architecture as a two-dimensional array of field-coupled nanomagnets. We estimate an integration density of 10(10) device/cm(2), few hundred MHz operation speed, straightforward fabrication technology and robust operation in a wide temperature range. Copyright (C) 2003 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.