Nonvolatile reprogrammable logic elements using hybrid resonant tunneling diode-giant magnetoresistance circuits

We have combined resonant interband tunneling diodes (RITDs) with giant mag netoresistance (GMR) elements so that the GMR element controls the switchin g current and stable operating voltage points of the hybrid circuit. Parall el and series combinations demonstrate continuous or two-state tunability o f the subsequent RITD-like current-voltage characteristic via the magnetic field response of the GMR element. Monostable-bistable transition logic ele ment operation is demonstrated with a GMR/RITD circuit in both the dc limit and clocked operation. The output of such hybrid circuits is nonvolatile, reprogrammable, and multivalued. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics.