Emerging memories

Why have MTJs with magnetization perpendicular to the film plane (perpendicular MTJs) become mainstream in recent STT-MRAM?

  1. ABecause no magnetic materials are needed to manufacture them
  2. BBecause they maintain thermal stability more easily when scaled and allow lower write currents
  3. CBecause light can be used for reading
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Answer: B. Because they maintain thermal stability more easily when scaled and allow lower write currents

MTJs with in-plane magnetization rely on the element's shape to stabilize the magnetization direction, which limits scaling. Perpendicular MTJs stabilize the magnetization through a material property (perpendicular magnetic anisotropy), so even small elements can easily secure thermal stability, and the required write current can also be reduced.

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