Patent ID: 8586957
Filing Date: 2013-11-19
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A three-terminal switching device for use in integrated circuit devices, comprising: a phase change material (PCM) disposed in direct electrical contact between a first terminal and a second terminal; a heating device disposed in direct electrical contact between said second terminal and a third terminal, said heating device positioned proximate said PCM, and configured to switch the conductivity of a transformable portion of said PCM between a lower resistance crystalline state and a higher resistance amorphous state; and an insulating layer configured to electrically isolate said heater from said PCM material, and said heater from said first terminal; wherein said heating device is formed atop said third terminal, and is in direct physical contact therewith; said second terminal and said insulating layer are formed atop said heating device, and are in direct physical contact therewith; and said PCM and said first terminal are formed atop said insulating layer, and are in direct physical contact therewith.