Energy Efficient Stochastic Signal Manipulation in Superparamagnetic Tunnel Junctions via Voltage-Controlled Exchange Coupling

Abstract: Superparamagnetic tunnel junctions (sMTJs) are emerging as promising components for stochastic units in neuromorphic computing, owing to their tunable random switching behavior. Conventional MTJ control methods, such as spin-transfer torque (STT) and spin-orbit torque (SOT), often require substantial power. Here, we introduce the voltage-controlled exchange coupling (VCEC) mechanism, enabling switching between antiparallel and parallel states in sMTJs with an ultralow power consumption of only 40 nW, approximately two orders of magnitude lower than conventional STT-based sMTJs. This mechanism yields a sigmoid-shaped output response, making it ideally suited for neuromorphic computing applications. Furthermore, we validate the feasibility of integrating VCEC with the SOT current control, offering an additional dimension for magnetic state manipulation. This work marks the first practical demonstration of VCEC effect in sMTJs, highlighting its potential as a low-power control solution for probabilistic bits in advanced computing systems.