Exploration of multilayer field-coupled nanomagnetic circuits. (September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Santoro, G.; Vacca, M.; Bollo, M.; Riente, F.; Graziano, M.; Zamboni, M.
• Is Part Of: Microelectronics journal. Volume 79(2018)
• Page Start: 46
• Page End: 56
• Publication Date: 2018-09
• Subjects: NanoMagnet logic -- 3D circuits -- Low power -- Emerging technologies; Microelectronics -- Periodicals; Microélectronique -- Périodiques; Microelectronics; Electronic journals; Journals - contents and abstracts; Periodicals; 621.3805
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mejo.2018.06.014
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-8324

Abstract

Abstract: Unlike MOSFET technology, Field-Coupled Nanocomputing (FCN) structures are based upon a completely new computational paradigm. The basic computational element propagates the information through near-field interaction with neighboring elements. The potential of this principle is really promising because of the absence of current flow, leading to low power consumption. Here, we explore the in-plane NanoMagnetic Logic implementation. The analysis of complex circuits highlights the limitations due to their planar structure: mixing logic and interconnections on a single layer leads to an explosion of the circuit area. In this paper, we evaluate whether a 3D implementation of the structure can abruptly reduce the major limitation of the technology. We propose a solution by using a particular clock delivery method, named Virtual Clock. The analysis is carried out through micromagnetic and functional simulations on medium complexity architectures. The results obtained clearly highlight a large improvement in circuit area and power consumption.