Spectrum Analyzer Using Spintronic Radar Arrays

We propose to develop a prototype of a novel spintronic spectrum analyzer using arrays of nano-scale magnetic spin-torque detectors. The operation of the proposed spectrum analyzers is based on the recently discovered effects of spin-transfer torque and spin-diode effects in nano-scale magnetic multilayered elements, the fabrication of which became possible due to the recent advances in nano-fabrication techniques. We propose two architectures of spintronic spectrum analyzers based either on the regular arrays of discrete magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) nano-pillars, or on randomized arrays of spin torque detectors coupled to the same spin wave waveguide. Our preliminary estimations show, that the proposed spectrum analyzers can operate without external applied magnetic field, can have frequency bandwidth of the order of 10 GHz, detection time less than 200 ns, and frequency resolution of 50 MHz or better. The operation frequency can be tuned from about 1 GHz to about 20 GHz, either by applying a bias magnetic field (in which case the operational frequency of one device can be tuned dynamically), or by adjusting the geometrical and physical parameters of the devices (in which case the spintronic spectrum analyzers can operate without a bias magnetic field).