Storage of atomic level data: Huge revolution in computing

Although computing and semiconductor technology have improved a great deal, the smallest memory bits have so far taken thousands of atoms (to make a transistor). Recently a Swiss researcher has just published a research result that can shrink each bit to the level of each atom.

0 and 1 are the most basic memory bits of every computing device we are using, from computers to smartphones and tablets . Today, most of them are stored on magnetic hard drives (HDD). or solid-state drive (Flash, SSD).

But to store a bit of memory like that, technology companies still need at least a few thousand matter atoms. Therefore, the maximum memory capacity that computing devices can achieve is always limited.

Therefore, this new study could revolutionize computing technology, helping to reduce the memory thousands of times.

The magnetic state of an atom can be used to store data.

Physicist Fabian Natterer of the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (Switzerland), described his research significance before the American Physical Society: " If you can make the memory bits smaller, you can hold more information ".

By measuring the electrical current, the researchers were able to determine the magnetic state of the holmium atom.

Specifically, Natterer and colleagues created microscopic memory bits based on magnetism, using holmium atoms placed on the magnesium oxide surface (MgO). In particular, the magnetic field direction of each Ho atom will act as bits 0 and 1, depending on the north pole of the atom turning up or down.

But how to "read and change" the value of the above memory bits? Researchers say they use tunnel scanning scanning microscopes (STMs). By measuring the intensity of current flowing through the Ho and MgO networks, which change depending on Ho's magnetic orientation, the researchers can determine whether the atom is "turning up" or "turning down". From there they can specify a status of 0 or 1 for the memory bit.

And to ensure that the potential value in the Ho atom is stable after the "reading / reading" process with STM, the team adds iron atoms (Fe) next to the Ho atoms to follow. Magnetic effects of atoms Ho on these Fe atoms.

Iron atoms are added to accurately read the value of memory bits.

If this study by Natterer and colleagues can be deployed into commercial products, it will create a huge revolution in computing, when it is possible to increase the density of memory bits thousands of times. .