Atomic Switch

An atomic switch is a nanoionic device that controls the diffusion of metal ions and their reduction/oxidation processes in the switching operation to form/annihilate a metal atomic bridge. Various types of atomic switches, such as two-terminal and three-terminal atomic switches, have been developed. The novel characteristics, such as their small size, low power consumption, low ON-resistance, and non-volatility, will be useful in improving present-day computers. Novel functions have also been developed in atomic switches, such as learning abilities, photo-sensing abilities, memristive operations, and synaptic functions; these functions may contribute in the development of new types of neural computing systems.