June 2012

Intel is proposing a new neuromorphic chip design concept that uses multi-input lateral spin valves (LSV) and memristors. Using these two devices in a cross-bar switch lattice, one can build a neuromorphic CPU. The LSVs are the neurons and the memristors are the synapses.

Theoretically such a chip could hold buillions of neurons and synapses and operate in the in the gigahertz or terahertz range. The device will also be quite efficient - about 300 times more efficient than CMOS equivalents.

NEC and Tohoku University have developed a new technology that aims to improving the reliability of spintronics logic integrated circuits. This could lead to devices that have a standby power of zero. They have verified this new technology on a prototype chip.

NEC and Tohoku's new device structure connects spin elements in a series, which prevents power consumption from increasing and prevents the area of the circuit from becoming larger. These highly reliable circuit components also support automatic placement and wiring, which means that highly reliable non-volatile logic integrated circuits can be designed even without expertise in spintronics technology.

Researchers from the University of Utah developed a Spintronics organic thin-film transistor that can be used as a cheap magnetic field sensor that never needs to be calibrated and is capable of detecting intermediate to strong magnetic fields. The film also resists heat and degradation and operates at room temperatures.

The thin film is an organic semiconductor polymer called MEH-PPV - a very cheap material. In fact the researchers say that this new sensor is "dirt cheap" - it costs just as little as a drop of regular paint. The researchers are thinking about launching a spin-off company to commercialize this technology.