  Within the framework of the Landau-Lifshitz-Gilbert equation, using permalloy
parameters, we study the statics and dynamics of flat circular magnetic
nano-structures with an in-plane magnetic vortex configuration, putting
particular emphasis on the (planar) vorticity of the magnetic state and on the
(perpendicular) polarisation of the vortex center (which may be shifted with
respect to the center of the circle). These binary degrees of freedom can in
principle be used to manipulate two independent bits of information.
  Studying switching processes induced by in-plane and out-of plane field
pulses we find that it is possible to switch the vorticity of the magnetic dot
on a time scale of 40 ps in strong enough and short enough perpendicular
external field pulses (B_z^ext \approx 0.5 T, duration \approx 40 ps). But for
realistically small values of the Gilbert damping, only the vorticity can be
switched this fast, and it turns out that it is better to dismiss the center of
the circle totally, concentrating on flat 'nano-rings' with an inner radius R_1
and an outer radius R_2. On these 'nano-rings' the vortex state is more stable,
and with respect to the switching of the vorticity these structures have
similar properties as circular dots.
