Methods and apparatus for reading a full-swing memory array

Details Methods and apparatus for reading a full-swing memory array Methods and apparatus for reading a full-swing memory array

2007-07-10

2007-07-10

Nguyen, Tan T. (Department: 2827)

Static information storage and retrieval

Read/write circuit

Including specified plural element logic arrangement

C365S230060

Reexamination Certificate

active

11152982

ABSTRACT:
Techniques for reducing power when reading a full-swing memory array are disclosed. The full-swing memory array includes a plurality of local bit lines and a global bit line. In order to reduce power consumption, a method of driving the global bit line includes the step of coupling the plurality of local bit lines to the global bit line through a plurality of tri-state devices. The method further includes the steps of generating a global select signal to enable one of the plurality of tri-state devices and selecting a corresponding local bit line to drive the output of the enabled tri-state device. In this way, the global bit line is statically driven so that consecutive reads of bits having the same value read over the global bit line do not result in transitioning the state of the global bit line.

REFERENCES:
patent: 5357477 (1994-10-01), Matsumoto et al.
patent: 5828594 (1998-10-01), Fujii
patent: 6292401 (2001-09-01), Zhang et al.
patent: 6584034 (2003-06-01), Hsu et al.
patent: 2005/0036389 (2005-02-01), Kim
patent: 2005/0216698 (2005-09-01), Chu et al.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

Rating

Methods and apparatus for reading a full-swing memory array does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this patent.

If you have personal experience with Methods and apparatus for reading a full-swing memory array, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Methods and apparatus for reading a full-swing memory array will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFUS-PAI-O-3819765