Reconfigurable Non-Volatile 4-Way Routing Switch with Zero Standby Power

A reconfigurable 4-way routing circuit made up of four non-volatile nanoelectromechanical (NEM) relays that can achieve 15 different connection patterns between four bidirectional ports is demonstrated. The programmed state is stored in the switch itself through stiction, consuming no energy, even at high temperatures and radiation levels. It is far more compact than a CMOS equivalent typically implemented with 36 transistors, and provides more routing paths. Proof of concept was achieved through measurements on prototype circuits fabricated on an SOI substrate. This routing switch can potentially be used to build efficient reconfigurable interconnect structures for low-power, and harsh-environment capable FPGAs.