Spin-Current Induced Magnetotransport in Co/Cu/Co Nanostructures

We report measurements on sub-100 nm current-perpendicular-to-place Co/Cu/Co spin-valves. The giant magnetoresistance versus applied magnetic field shows the switching in individual patterned Co nanomagnets. Spin transfer from the spin-polarized current to the nanomagnets becomes significant for large currents and small devices. The resistance versus applied current shows spin-transfer effects, including current-induced nanomagnet switching and resistance steps indicative of current-induced magnetic precession.