Magnetic Transistors - Better Against Radiation?

In summary, South Korean researchers have developed a magnetic transistor switch that is capable of saving power. This technology could potentially benefit space applications due to the fact that magnetic states are less susceptible to damage from cosmic rays, making it a more robust and reliable option for processors. It has also been suggested that magnetic transistors could be superior in higher radiation environments such as space, nuclear reactors, and medical radiation equipment. Additionally, this technology may also have potential uses in particle detectors that are exposed to high levels of radiation.
  • #1
sanman
745
24
South Korean researchers have developed a magnetic transistor switch which may save power:

http://www.nature.com/news/magnetic-logic-makes-for-mutable-chips-1.12321

I'm wondering if this could benefit space applications, but on more than just power-saving.

Magnetic states aren't as easily harmed by cosmic rays, thanks to spin majorities. That's why MRAM (magnetic RAM) is good for space applications.

I was then thinking that processors based on magnetic transistor switches could create a more robust system that's much more capable of standing upto the harsh radiation environment of outer space without suffering crashes and glitches that can jeopardize a space mission.

Could magnetic transistors in fact be superior in higher radiation environments like space and perhaps nuclear reactors, and even near medical radiation equipment?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Interesting concept.
Could be useful for particle detectors as well - they receive significant radiation doses (much more than electronics in space).
 

FAQ: Magnetic Transistors - Better Against Radiation?

1. What are magnetic transistors and how do they work?

Magnetic transistors are a type of electronic device that use magnetic fields to control the flow of electrons. They work by utilizing the spin of electrons, in addition to their charge, to create a stronger and more reliable signal.

2. How are magnetic transistors better against radiation compared to traditional transistors?

Magnetic transistors have the unique ability to resist radiation and maintain their functionality even in high radiation environments. This is because they do not rely on the movement of charge carriers, which can be disrupted by radiation, but rather on the spin of electrons.

3. What are the potential applications of magnetic transistors?

Magnetic transistors have the potential to be used in a wide range of applications, including electronic devices that operate in high radiation environments, such as satellites and nuclear power plants. They can also be used in medical devices, such as MRI machines, which use strong magnetic fields.

4. Are magnetic transistors currently being used in any commercial products?

While magnetic transistors are still in the early stages of development, they have been successfully demonstrated in laboratories and are currently being researched for potential commercial applications. However, they have not yet been widely adopted in commercial products.

5. What are the challenges in developing and implementing magnetic transistors?

One of the main challenges in developing magnetic transistors is finding ways to control and manipulate the spin of electrons in a reliable and efficient manner. Additionally, integrating magnetic transistors into existing electronic devices can be a complex and costly process. Further research and development is needed to address these challenges before magnetic transistors can be widely used in commercial products.

Similar threads

GRX-810, Advanced Multi-principal Element Alloy (MPEA)
Replies
2
Views
2K
PIC Microcontroller in a custom Harley motorcycle project.
Replies
6
Views
6K
Is my fictional Solar System stable and realistic?
Replies
21
Views
2K
Other NIST SURF Personal Statement Critique
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Sticky
Getting Started With Computers and Programming
Replies
13
Views
5K
Are both velocity and jerk of charges responsible for magnetic fields?
Replies
9
Views
4K
Nanomaterial Converts Radiation to Electricity
Replies
26
Views
15K
Writing: Input Wanted Spacecraft One Alpha 10: Energy, Materials & Protection
Replies
2
Views
2K
Next Generation Computer Hardware Coming Soon
Replies
1
Views
4K
Is a Quantum Universe Computer Possible?
Replies
4
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top