Abstract: A multi-function pointing device is disclosed. The multi-function pointing device is operative to initiate an action in an electronic device in response to a movement of a pointing implement that is movably positioned in a holster. At least one sensor detects the movement (e.g. translation and rotation) of the pointing implement in the holster and outputs a signal indicative of that motion. The action initiated by the electronic device can include manipulating images on a display or a touch sensitive display, scrolling of the display, cursor movement, zooming in and zooming out on an image, and moving between various icons or objects on the display. The pointing implement can be a stylus for manipulating images displayed on a device such as a PDA, cell phone, digital camera, portable computing device, or the like. The multi-function pointing device can be a peripheral component that is connected with the electronic device.

Abstract: A method of treating an electrically non-conductive tunnel barrier layer through an overlayer of a tunnel junction device with ultra-violet light is disclosed. The method includes irradiating a tunnel barrier layer with ultra-violet light through at least one overlayer that covers the tunnel barrier layer to activate oxygen or nitrogen atoms disposed in the barrier layer so that those atoms will react with a target material of the tunnel barrier layer to form a uniformly oxidized or nitridized tunnel barrier layer having minimal or no defects therein and/or a desired breakdown voltage. The ultra violet light can irradiate the tunnel barrier layer during or after the formation of the overlayer. Heat can be applied before, during, or after the irradiation step to increase the activation rate and to further reduce defects. The method is applicable to any tunnel junction device including a magnetic field sensitive memory device such as a MRAM.