Ultrafast generation of magnetic fields in a Schottky diode

M. Buess, Y. Acremann, C. H. Back, M. Dumm, G. Bayreuther, D. Pescia

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

For the development of future magnetic data storage technologies, the ultrafast generation of local magnetic fields is essential. Subnanosecond excitation of the magnetic state has so far been achieved by launching current pulses into micro-coils and micro-striplines and by using the high-energy electron beams. Local injection of a spin-polarized current through an all-metal junction has been proposed as an efficient method of switching magnetic elements, and experiments seem to confirm this. Here we introduce a different scheme for the ultrafast generation of local magnetic fields in such a hybrid structure. The basis of our approach is to optically pump a Schottky diode with a focused, ∼150-fs laser pulse. The laser generates a current across the semiconductor-metal junction, which in turn gives rise to an in-plane magnetic field. This scheme combines the localization of current injection techniques with the speed of current generation at a Schottky barrier. Specific advantages include the ability to rapidly create local fields along any in-plane direction anywhere on the sample, the ability to scan the field over many magnetic elements and the ability to tune the magnitude of the field with the diode bias voltage.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationINTERMAG Europe 2002 - IEEE International Magnetics Conference
EditorsJ. Fidler, B. Hillebrands, C. Ross, D. Weller, L. Folks, E. Hill, M. Vazquez Villalabeitia, J. A. Bain, Jo De Boeck, R. Wood
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
ISBN (Electronic)0780373650, 9780780373655
DOIs
StatePublished - 2002
Externally publishedYes
Event2002 IEEE International Magnetics Conference, INTERMAG Europe 2002 - Amsterdam, Netherlands
Duration: 28 Apr 20022 May 2002

Publication series

NameINTERMAG Europe 2002 - IEEE International Magnetics Conference

Conference

Conference2002 IEEE International Magnetics Conference, INTERMAG Europe 2002
Country/TerritoryNetherlands
CityAmsterdam
Period28/04/022/05/02

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