New Reconfigurable Logic System Achieved with Heterojunction Transistors using ALD

Korean scientists have created a new kind of logic system using special transistors called H-MTR (Link). These transistors can control negative transconductance (NTC) characteristics, allowing for precise logic operations. By programming the transistors, they can switch between different transfer curves, making them highly versatile.

Using the H-MTR transistors, researchers developed a reconfigurable logic inverter called R-inverter (Link). This inverter performed exceptionally well, with a high static noise margin of 85% for binary logic and 59% for ternary logic. It also showed long-term stability and endurance. This reconfigurable logic system opens up new possibilities for computing methods and can generate different output sequences for the same input signal.

The study also demonstrated a dynamic logic conversion-in-memory by connecting a chain of R-inverters. This method allowed for the generation of three different output sequences using a single input signal. This innovative approach to logic computing has never been seen before. The development of this reconfigurable logic system has great potential for applications in artificial intelligence, integrated circuits, and personalized IoT devices. It addresses the need for compatibility and improved information processing capabilities.

One of the key technologies employed in the development of these reconfigurable logic devices is Atomic Layer Deposition. ALD is a precise thin-film deposition technique that allows for the controlled deposition of atomic layers onto a substrate. In the case of the H-MTR transistors, ALD was used to create the necessary heterojunctions and floating gates with high precision. This enables the fine-tuning of the transistor characteristics and ensures reliable performance. The use of ALD in fabricating these devices highlights the significance of advanced manufacturing techniques in pushing the boundaries of electronic systems and opens up possibilities for further advancements in the field of reconfigurable logic.

A reconfigurable binary/ternary logic conversion-in-memory based on drain-aligned floating-gate heterojunction transistors

• Chungryeol Lee, 
• Changhyeon Lee, 
• Seungmin Lee, 
• Junhwan Choi, 
• Hocheon Yoo & 
• Sung Gap Im 

Nature Communications volume 14, Article number: 3757 (2023)