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In this paper, we report about the derivation of a physics-based compact model of random telegraph noise (RTN) in HfO2-based resistive random access memory (RRAM) devices. Starting from the physics of charge transport, which is different in the high resistive states and low resistive states, we explore the mechanisms responsible for RTN exploiting a hybrid approach, based on self-consistent physics simulations and geometrical simplifications. Then, we develop a simple yet effective physics-based compact model of RTN valid in both states, which can be steadily integrated in state-of-the-art RRAM compact models. The RTN compact model predictions are validated by comparison with both a large experimental data set obtained by measuring RRAM devices in different conditions, and data reported in the literature. In addition, we show how the model enables advanced circuit simulations by exploring three different circuits for memory, security, and logic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resistive-switching memory (RRAM) is attracting a widespread interest for its outstanding properties, such as low power, high speed, and good endurance. A crucial concern for RRAM is the current fluctuation, which induces significant broadening of resistance levels in single-bit and multilevel applications. This paper addresses low-frequency fluctuations focusing on $1/f$ and random telegraph noise contributions in intrinsic, i.e., typical, cells. The current fluctuations are studied in both the time and frequency domains, and the analytical models are presented to predict the resistance broadening for different RRAM states. Finally, the resistance dependence of noise and broadening is studied with the support of a 3-D finite-element model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noise in resistive switching memory (RRAM) is among the main concerns due to its impact on the reliability of single-bit and multilevel cell devices. Although noise in typical RRAM cells is understood fairly well, the statistics of noise and the presence and impact of statistical tails in the current fluctuation is what mostly affects the RRAM reliability at the array level. This paper addresses current noise in RRAM arrays, focusing on high-resistance state distribution and its broadening with time. We highlight two main contributions to the tail behavior, namely, random walk (RW) and random telegraph noise (RTN) with random start and stop. We provide evidence for a time decay of RW amplitude with time, which we explain by time-dependent stabilization of defects. We finally develop a statistical Monte Carlo model for noise, which is capable of explaining the broadening of the resistance distribution based on a physical description of RW and RTN components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we investigate the random telegraph noise (RTN) in hafnium-oxide resistive random access memories in high resistive state (HRS). The current fluctuations are analyzed by decomposing the multilevel RTN signal into two-level RTN traces using a factorial hidden Markov model approach, which allows extracting the properties of the traps originating the RTN. The current fluctuations, statistically analyzed on devices with a different stack reset at different voltages, are attributed to the activation and deactivation of defects in the oxidized tip of the conductive filament, assisting the trap-assisted tunneling transport in HRS. The physical mechanisms responsible for the defect activation are discussed. We find that RTN current fluctuations can be due to either the coulomb interaction between oxygen vacancies (normally assisting the charge transport) and the electron charge trapped at interstitial oxygen defects, or the metastable defect configuration of oxygen vacancies assisting the electron transport in HRS. A consistent microscopic description of the phenomenon is proposed, linking the material properties to the device performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A key concern for resistive-switching random access memory (RRAM) is the read noise, due to the structural, chemical, and electrical modifications taking place at the localized current path, or conductive filament (CF). Read noise typically appears as a random telegraph noise (RTN), where the current randomly fluctuates between ON and OFF levels. This paper addresses RTN in RRAM, providing physical interpretations and models for the dependence on the programming and read conditions. First, we explain the RTN dependence on the compliance current during set transition in terms of the size-dependent depletion of carriers within the CF. Then, we discuss the bias dependence of the RTN switching times and amplitude, which can be explained by Joule heating and Poole-Frenkel barrier modifications arising from the electrostatics of the RTN fluctuating center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]