Nanomechanical switch-based logic and non-volatile memory for robust ultra-low power circuits
ZeroAMP is a project to develop a nanomechanical switch-based computing platform that will enable computing components with very high energy efficiency in harsh environmental conditions. Emerging applications such as the Internet-of-Things, all-electric vehicles and more-electric aircraft require electronics that can operate at high temperatures with very high energy efficiency. At the other end of the temperature spectrum superconducting quantum circuits operate at cryogenic temperatures (< 4K) when carrier freezeout in the classical control circuitry makes it a challenge to perform basic functions such as (de)multiplexing of qubits. We will demonstrate a field programmable gate array-like nanomechanical switch-based reprogrammable computing platform comprising logic and non-volatile memory to serve these emerging requirements. Our technology solution will use novel materials, switch designs and circuit techniques along with advanced 3D stacking for large-scale integration of the nanomechanical switching elements to achieve an energy efficiency and environmental capability that cannot be matched by CMOS or any experimental technologies currently on the horizon. ZeroAMP is an industry driven effort that involves three leading companies covering the entire semiconductor supply chain (MICROSEMI, XFAB and AMO), a leading research institute (CSEM), two top universities (University of Bristol and KTH) and an Exploitation Council with key European stakeholders across the different industries relevant to the technology. We cover the complete technology platform required for nanomechanical computing including 3D switch integration, design methodologies and packaging, as well as the entire supply chain with foundry partners and manufacturers. In summary, in ZeroAMP we will develop a novel nanoelectronic technology platform to deliver the first large-scale-integrated nanomechanical computing systems comprising a field programmable gate array and a non-volatile memory.