Modulation of single and double spin torque oscillators

Abstract

We discuss modulation of metallic spin torque oscillators (STOs) based on single and double nano-contacts. The modulation behavior of both types of devices is characterized by equally spaced multiple sidebands, which can be ascribed mostly to a frequency modulation phenomenon. However, quantitative examination reveals that amplitude modulation is also present in both types of devices. We also show the feasibility of modulating the synchronized state of a double nano-contact STO. The synchronized state can be treated as a single oscillator, which is a very promising feature for future applications of STO arrays.z © 2011 American Institute of Physics.