Driving a DRAM sense amplifier having low threshold voltage...

Details Driving a DRAM sense amplifier having low threshold voltage... Driving a DRAM sense amplifier having low threshold voltage...

2006-02-21

2006-02-21

Elms, Richard (Department: 2824)

Static information storage and retrieval

Read/write circuit

Flip-flop used for sensing

C365S189090, C365S222000, C365S226000

Reexamination Certificate

active

07002863

ABSTRACT:
Circuits and methods for driving a DRAM sense amplifier having low threshold voltage PMOS transistors are described. The source terminal of a low VtpPMOS transistor is maintained at ground potential during DRAM standby mode. The source terminal of the low VtpPMOS transistor is raised to an intermediate supply voltage responsive to a transition from DRAM standby mode to either DRAM read mode, write mode, or refresh mode and prior to development of a differential voltage between the gate and drain terminals of the low VtpPMOS transistor. These circuits and methods advantageously limit current loss through the low VtpPMOS transistor when the differential voltage develops between the gate and drain terminals of that low VtpPMOS transistor and in the event of a word line and digital line short-circuit.

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