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Overview of Phase-Change Chalcogenide Nonvolatile Memory Technology

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  31 January 2011

S. Hudgens  and
B. Johnson
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Abstract

Phase-change nonvolatile semiconductor memory technology is based on an electrically initiated, reversible rapid amorphous-to-crystalline phase-change process in multicomponent chalcogenide alloy materials similar to those used in rewriteable optical disks. Long cycle life, low programming energy, and excellent scaling characteristics are advantages that make phase-change semiconductor memory a promising candidate to replace flash memory in future applications. Phase-change technology is being commercialized by a number of semiconductor manufacturers. Fundamental processes in phase-change semiconductor memory devices, device performance characteristics, and progress toward commercialization of the technology are reviewed.

Keywords

chalcogenidesnonvolatile memoryphase change.

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Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Bulletin , Volume 29 , Issue 11: High-Performance Emerging Solid-State Memory Technologies , November 2004 , pp. 829 - 832
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2004

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