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Evidence of the thermo-electric Thomson effect and influence on the program conditions and cell optimization in phase-change memory cells

  • D.T. Castro
  • , L. Goux
  • , G.A.M. Hurkx
  • , K. Attenborough
  • , R. Delhounge
  • , J. Lisoni
  • , F.J. Jedema
  • , M.A.A. in ‘t Zandt
  • , R.A.M. Wolters
  • , Dirk J Gravesteijn
  • , M. Verheijen
  • , M. Kaiser
  • , R.G.R. Weemaes

    Research output: Contribution to conferencePaperpeer-review

    7 Downloads (Pure)

    Abstract

    We present physical and electrical evidence of the Thomson thermo-electric effect in line-type phase-change memory cells. This causes a shift of the molten zone during RESET programming towards the anode contact, and as a consequence the phase change material (PCM) design at the contact area has a significant influence on the program conditions. First statistical studies showed a reduction of minimum Reset currents by ~5% and Set voltages by ~28% when PCM extensions around the anode are used instead of fine line contacts. This Thomson effect remains important with further cell scaling.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages315-318
    Number of pages4
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 10 Dec 2007
    EventInternational Electron Devices Meeting, IEDM 2007 - Washington, United States
    Duration: 10 Dec 200712 Dec 2007

    Conference

    ConferenceInternational Electron Devices Meeting, IEDM 2007
    Abbreviated titleIEDM 2007
    Country/TerritoryUnited States
    CityWashington
    Period10/12/0712/12/07

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