Research is carried on XRAM, a parallel access memory for multiprocessor computing machines. XRAM will allow an unlimited number of processors simultaneous access to READ and WRITE to a central (global) memory in fractions of a microsecond per cycle. The research includes two iterations of design, fabrication and testing of XRAM devices. The first iteration will consist of designs for access of 1, 2, 4 and 8 processors. The second iteration will consist of designs for access of 1, 2, 8, 32 and 64 processors. Characterization of XRAM devices is performed with electrical and optical-Kerr effect testing. Applications for XRAM include: Aerospace and automobile design, manufacturing and chemical process design, theoretical physics calculation, and other applications. XRAM will be an inexpensive memory because no exotic materials are used in XRAM and standard photolithographic fabrication techniques are employed.
