Magnetic Chip
Computers process data electronically and store data magnetically; but what if you could make a magnetic processor? A microchip made of magnetic semiconductor material would have unique properties; for example, it could store information while simultaneously performing computations. To make a magnetic chip behave like an electronic one, researchers have tried to control the spin of electrons, with clockwise and counterclockwise movements representing the zeroes and ones of a digital system. Previous attempts have required extremely low temperatures, making them costly and impractical, but materials scientists at North Carolina State University recently built a prototype that functions at a range of 38 to 75 C. The researchers accomplished their goal by “adding manganese to gallium nitride,” says electrical engineering professor Salah M. Bedair. The rest of the recipe is a secret while the group’s patent is pending. One potential application: a laser or LED that can be tuned to different wavelengths by adjusting a magnetic field. Such a device could be valuable for fiber-optic communications. -C. Conti
Keep Reading
Most Popular
DeepMind’s cofounder: Generative AI is just a phase. What’s next is interactive AI.
“This is a profound moment in the history of technology,” says Mustafa Suleyman.
What to know about this autumn’s covid vaccines
New variants will pose a challenge, but early signs suggest the shots will still boost antibody responses.
Human-plus-AI solutions mitigate security threats
With the right human oversight, emerging technologies like artificial intelligence can help keep business and customer data secure
Next slide, please: A brief history of the corporate presentation
From million-dollar slide shows to Steve Jobs’s introduction of the iPhone, a bit of show business never hurt plain old business.
Stay connected
Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.