Patent ID: 7439536
Filing Date: 2008-10-21
Classification: G11C,H01L

Abstract:
1. A phase change memory cell comprising: a phase change region of a phase change material; and a heating element of a resistive material, arranged in contact with said phase change region along an entire contact area, the phase change region including a memory element adjacent to the contact area, wherein said heating element is in the form of a frame having a thickness defined by an external perimeter and an internal perimeter, the external perimeter having a first linear cross-dimension from a first side of the external perimeter to an opposite, second side of the external perimeter that is less than 100 nm; a dielectric sheath film positioned within the inner perimeter of the heating element frame, the sheath film being shaped as a frame having a central opening; and a conductive core centrally located within the frame of the heating element and completely filling the opening of the dielectric sheath film.