Following a research study carried out by researchers at the University of California and researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University, an important advancement could come to the fore. This is development of magnetic memory storage components for computers and other devices that are more energy efficient.
Magnets find wide use for computer memory. This is because the ‘up’ and ‘down’ polarity of magnet allows them to be flipped to write data or store information. Because magnetic memory is nonvolatile, it enables information to be stored on devices without refreshing them. But, magnetic memory requires lot of energy.
New Intermediate polarity Magnetic State to Impel Use
Meanwhile, a recently discovered magnetic state called ‘skyrmion’ which does not bear ‘up’ or ‘down’ polarity, but is flower-shaped offers a solution. The manipulating of skyrmion state allows for much robust, efficient data storage for both conventional computers and wireless smart devices.
“The finding demonstrate the possibility to control skyrmion state using electric field. This could ultimately lead to a more energy efficient nanomagnetic devices,” state the lead author of the study.
The finding is a stepping stone towards ultimately developing commercially feasible magnetic memory based on this model.
Earlier in 2016 and 2018, researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University showcased another finding. It showed that using an intermediate skyrmion shape to force magnetic transition precisely between ‘up’ and ‘down’ state could reduce errors while writing information in the memory. Thus, this would make devices more resistant to thermal noise and material defects. The researchers hold a patent on this idea. The new experiment for proof-of-concept presented in Nature Electronics is the first step in making of such a device.