Cell current control through power supply
US9208895B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 14, 2014 |
| Grant date | Dec 8, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 14, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG11C16/28
- WIPO fieldComputer technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Techniques and corresponding circuitry are presented for controlling the amount of current flowing through the cells of a memory circuit during a sensing operation though a feedback arrangement. The amount of current supplied to bit lines from an external power supply by regulation circuitry is compared with a reference level. Based on this comparison, the level on the control gates of clamp transistors in the sense amp circuits is set to control the amount of current supplied to the bit lines. This can reduce device variation since the levels are replicated locally at the generator on the chip. The circuitry can also be used more generally to determine the current level drawn during a sensing operation.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.