Reducing the critical switching current in nanoscale spin valves

The current induced magnetization reversal in nanoscale spin valves is a potential alternative to magnetic field switching in magnetic memories. We show that the critical switching current can be decreased by an order of magnitude by strategically distributing the resistances in the magnetically active region of the spin valve. In addition, we...

Feedback control of noise in spin valves by the spin-transfer torque

The miniaturization of magnetic read heads and random access memory elements makes them vulnerable to thermal fluctuations. We demonstrate how current-induced spin-transfer torques can be used to suppress the effects of thermal fluctuations. This enhances the fidelity of perpendicular magnetic spin valves. The simplest realization is a dc to...