Highly Scalable Selectorless Cryogenic Memory Array Using Ferroelectric Josephson Field-Effect Transistors

Abstract

Scalable memory systems that satisfy the temperature, speed, and energy requirements of cryogenic environments are essential for the development of large-scale quantum computers. They may also benefit high-performance computing and space applications. However, existing cryogenic memory technologies often suffer from limited scalability, low operating speed, and/or high power consumption, restricting the scalability of target applications. Ferroelectric Josephson field-effect transistors (Fe-JoFETs), which combine ferroelectric polarization with the superconducting properties of Josephson junctions, offer a promising solution. The ferroelectric layer enables nonvolatile storage capability, while the Josephson junction supports high-speed, energy-efficient operations. In this work, we leverage Fe-JoFETs to develop a highly scalable, ultra-low-power, nonvolatile cryogenic memory array that does not need additional selector devices for random access. Moreover, the superconducting component of Fe-JoFET provides a binary decision during read, eliminating the need for sensing peripheral circuitry. We first develop a physics-based Verilog-A compact model for Fe-JoFETs and use it to verify the functionality of the proposed memory array. By eliminating both selector and sensing circuitry, the proposed memory architecture offers higher scalability than existing technologies. The ultra-low-power operation of this memory also makes it compatible with strict power budgets of cryogenic applications.