It's new era of Computing, Researchers enhanced information storage

A team of researchers has developed a new technology named as Magnetoresistive Random Access Memory (MRAM), that will increase information storage in electronic systems. This technology will enhance memory as well as it makes sure that fresh data stays intact even in the case of power failure. The team has already filed a US provisional patent for their technology. Researchers are from the Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering at the National University of Singapore (NUS).

Led by Dr Yang Hyunsoo, the team developed a new device structure useful for the next generation MRAM chip which can potentially be applied to enhance the user experience in consumer electronics, including personal computers, laptops & mobile phones. New technology can also be applied in transportation, military and avionics systems, industrial motor control and robotics, industrial power and energy management as well as health care electronics. 

Commenting on the benefits of their chip, Dr Yang said, "From the consumer's standpoint, we will no longer need to wait for our computer to boot up. Storage space will increase and memory will be so enhanced that there is no need to regularly hit the save button as fresh data will stay intact even in the case of a power failure."

Dr Yang added, "With the heavy reliance on our mobile phones these days, we usually need to charge them daily. Using our new technology, we may only need to charge them on a weekly basis."

In the next phase of their research, the team plans to apply the invented structure in memory cells. They are looking for industry partners for collaborations on developing a spin orbit torque based MRAM.

The innovation is expected to change the architecture of computers, making them much easier to manufacture as it does away with many facilities such as flash memory, effectively bringing down the cost. Major semiconductor players such as Samsung, Intel, Toshiba & IBM are intensifying research efforts in MRAM and the team's innovative technology has received strong interest from the industry.

These MRAM chips may have 10x boost than the conventional DRAM chips.