Racetrack Memory: The Future Third Dimension of Data Storage

Synopsis

In 2002, Stuart Parkin started thinking about the limitations of the basic technology of hard disk drives and memory chips—and wondering if there was a better way of designing a disk drive without moving parts. He came up with the concept of spintronics-based memory, dubbed racetrack memory, and received his first patent in 2004. These fast and efficient magnetic memories are based on a 3D structure and will be able to store about 140 terabits per square inch (Tbpsi), while the existing technology, i.e., magnetic HDDs have areal density ∼1 Tbpsi. With Heat-assisted magnetic recording (HAMR), it could go up to 4 Tbpsi in ordinary HDDs. Racetrack memories are based on moving magnetic domains along a nanoscopic wire, using a spin-coherent electric current. Right now, these memories are under development at IBM's Almaden Research Center by a team led by physicist Stuart Parkin.