This project would support the development of a memory test device at the national institute of standards and technology

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) awarded a $133,600 Cooperative Agreement to the University of Maryland, College Park under the Measurement and Engineering Research and Standards program (CFDA 11.609) for the period October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. The University of Maryland's Office of Research Administration & Advancement will collaborate with NIST's Physical Measurements Laboratory to develop a microfabricated memory test device capable of evaluating emerging memory technologies, including in-memory computing devices. Key deliverables include specification development for the testbed design, detailed design layout utilizing Cadence Design Systems software, and preparation for device testing of novel memory technologies.

The primary product is an automated testbed platform that will reduce time and labor costs associated with measuring and comparing performance characteristics of new memory device technologies. This automated measurement system will serve as a shared resource benefiting both industry and the broader research community by streamlining the evaluation process for competitive memory device properties. The University of Maryland does not intend to subaward any portion of the cooperative agreement funding, with all work performed at the College Park, Maryland location under direct collaboration with NIST's fabrication capabilities.

Expected outcomes

The development of a testbed which can measure multiple devices automatically which will reduce time and labor efforts in determining competitive properties in proposed memory devices.

Intended beneficiaries

The general public and industry will benefit from the new testbed due to efficiency in determining competitive properties in memory devices. Other researchers will also benefit from this.

Subrecipient activities

The recipient does not intend to subaward funds.