Scientists build double-floating-gate FET, believe it could revolutionize computer memory

[img]http://www.blogcdn.com/www.engadget.com/media/2011/01/1-22-11-double-floating-gate-fet-220.jpg
[/img]Look, we get it, you want DRAM that behaves like flash, flash
that behaves like DRAM, and everything in between -- speedy computer
memory that doesn't lose its data when the power goes off, and lasts
for years on end. Well, it looks there's a new challenger about to
enter that ring -- double floating-gate field effect transistors,
currently in prototype form at North Carolina State University.
Whereas the single floating-gate variety is currently responsible for
the flash memory in your USB keys and SSDs, the second floating gate
lets bits of data stay in an active, ready state, but the computer can
also apply a higher voltage to "freeze" them in place. Since the
memory can switch between static and dynamic modes in a single cycle
and the data never disappears in between, researchers imagine the new
tech could lead to instant-on computers and power-saving techniques
that shut down idle memory banks. That's the consumer take, at least
-- find the technical deep dive at our more coverage link.