Patent ID: 7351992

Claim:
A monolithic three dimensional phase change memory array comprising: a) a first memory level, the first memory level comprising: i) a plurality of substantially parallel first conductors formed at a first height above a substrate; ii) a plurality of substantially parallel second conductors formed at a second height, the second height above the first height; iii) a plurality of first diodes, each disposed between one of the first conductors and one of the second conductors; iv) a plurality of heater layers, each disposed between one of the first conductors and one of the second conductors and each having an upper surface having a first area; v) a plurality of phase change elements, each having a lower surface having a second area, wherein at least a part of the lower surface of each phase change element is in contact with the upper surface of the adjacent heater layer and wherein the first area is smaller than the second area; and b) at least a second memory level monolithically formed on the first memory level.