Magnetic random access memory and method of operating the same

A magnetic random access memory array having a matrix structure of unit memory devices each including a data storage unit comprising:

• a fixed layer, a non-magnetic layer, and a free layer having two ends;
• a data input means electrically connected to both ends of the free layer to input data into the data storage unit;
• and
• a data output means electrically connected to the free layer and the fixed layer to output data stored in the data storage unit,
• wherein the data input means and the data output means are electrically connected to an input selection decoder and an output selection decoder, respectively, within the magnetic random access memory array to select a particular unit memory device.

A method of operating a magnetic random access memory array including an array having a matrix structure of unit memory devices each including a data storage unit having a fixed layer, a non-magnetic layer, and a free layer having two ends;

• a data input means electrically connected to both ends of the free layer to input data into the data storage unit;
• and a data output means electrically connected to the free layer and the fixed layer to output data stored in the data storage unit;
• and an input selection decoder and an output selection decoder electrically connected to the data input means and the data output means, respectively, to select a particular unit memory device in the array, the method comprising:
• (a) selecting a particular unit memory device using the input selection decoder, and forming a spin arrangement in a predetermined direction within a magnetic domain of the free layer of the data storage unit by applying current to the selected unit memory device using the data input means, thereby storing data;
• and
• (b) driving an output selection switch connected to a particular unit memory device using the output selection decoder and reading data from the data storage unit using the data output means.