Voltage programmable links programmed with low current transistors

U.S. Patent Number: 5390141

Abstract: An electrical path can be formed through a transformable insulator between first and second conductors by applying a voltage between such conductors across at least one selected region of the insulator. Much of the current required to complete the link is provided from parasitic capacitance of the writing circuit or from capacitance which is removable from the circuit during normal operations. As a result, small transistors of less than 100 microamps may be used in the writing circuit which applies the programming voltage.

Inventors: Cohen; Simon S. (Burlington, MA), Raffel; Jack I. (Lexington, MA)

Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Cambridge, MA)

Application Number: 08/088,253

Issued: 1995-02-14

Expired: 2007-02-14

Classes: 365/96 ; 365/189.01; 365/94

Field of search: 365/94,96,189.01,230.01

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