ELECTRICALLY PROGRAMMABLE LINK STRUCTURES AND METHODS OF MAKING SAME

Methods and systems are disclosed for fabricating electrically programmable link structures by fabricating a first conductor, which comprises a refractory conductive material, then fabricating an insulative link material over the refractory conductive material and, subsequently, depositing an upper conductive material over the link material. In use, an electrical path can be formed between the first and second conductive elements by applying a voltage between such elements across at least one selected region of the insulator, such that the insulative link material is transformed in the region and rendered conductive to form an electrical signal path. The link material is preferably a silicon oxide insulator and The U.S. Government has rights in this invention pursuant to Contract No. F19628-90-C-0002 awarded by the Department of the Air Force.