A -- EXPERIMENTAL INVESTIGATION ON SPIN TRANSFER MAGNETIC RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY

The U.S. Department of Commerce, National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST), Electromagnetics Division proposes to negotiate on a sole source basis contract under the authority of 41 U.S.C. 253(c)(1) with the University of Colorado to perform experimental investigation on spin transfer magnetic random access memory (MRAM). NIST currently has a research program in spin electronics and spin-transfer oscillators. In order to accomplish the requirements of this program, the Division needs outside assistance to assess the feasibility of using spin transfer to switch magnetic random-access memory elements. The Division requires a contractor with detailed expertise of magnetic materials and devices, photolithography, magnetic modeling software, and spin-momentum transfer theory. Work will be a collaborative effort and conducted on site at the NIST Boulder Laboratory Campus in Boulder, Colorado. The following tasks are to be completed in the six month time period:1. Field and current injection: (a) Use field and current injection locking to probe characteristics of different oscillation branches. Quantify relative efficiencies for field and current injection. (b) Compare field excitation vs. spin wave excitation of Nan oscillators. (c) Measure amplitude and phase around locking range. 2. Mutual locking of spin transfer oscillators: (a) Determine magnitude of field generated by dc current through contact. (b) Determine locking/interaction as a function of contact spacing. (c) Measure ac giant magnetoresistance signal induced in one contact due to precession in another. 3. Implement high frequency measurement system employing mixer, high bandwidth probes, and cabling. 4. Grow and characterize magnetic multilayers and tunnel junctions and implement into patterned spin-transfer MRAM structures. Perform high–frequency switching and noise characterization of completed devices. The contract period is January 1, 2006 through June 30, 2006. This procurement is being conducted per FAR Part 13, Simplified Acquisition Procedures (NTE $100K). This synopsis is issued for information only. No competitive solicitation is planned. Based on our market research, the University of Colorado’s Condensed Matter Laboratory is the only contractor who can meet the requirements of this procurement. Information submitted in response to this notice will be used solely to determine whether or not use of competitive procedures to fulfill this requirement would be in the Government's best interest and must address qualifications pertinent to this requirement. Any questions regarding this notice must be submitted in writing to the attention of Ms. Rima (e-mail preferred). Anticipated award date is January 3, 2006.