Read Only Systems (i.e., Semipermanent) Patents (Class 365/94)
  • Patent number: 7720611
    Abstract: Methods, apparatus, and systems are provided for processing a data set representing an amplification curve having a baseline portion and a growth portion. Peak objects are generated by taking a derivative of the data set. The first peak object having a value greater than a threshold is identified. An end of the baseline portion from a beginning of the first peak object is estimated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Assignee: Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey Lerner
  • Patent number: 7710784
    Abstract: A nitride trapping memory device includes a comparator, a bias unit, a memory cell, a cycling cell, a compensation cell and a control unit. The comparator has a reference voltage. The bias unit is for outputting a bias voltage to the comparator, and the comparator outputs a bit value according to comparison of the bias voltage and the reference voltage. The memory cell is connected to the bias unit via a first switch. The cycling cell is connected to the bias unit via a second switch. The compensation cell is connected to the bias unit via a third switch. The control unit is for controlling the cycling cell and the compensation cell according to the bit value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Macronix International Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chi-Ling Chu, Hsien-Wen Hsu, Jian-Yuan Shen
  • Patent number: 7710761
    Abstract: A memory cell including a bit and bitnot sense lines as well as a random access memory (RAM) word line and a read only memory (ROM) word line. The memory cell particularly includes a static RAM (SRAM) bit cell and a ROM bit cell. The SRAM bit cell is coupled between the bit and bitnot sense lines, and is responsive to a signal on the RAM word line. The ROM bit cell is also coupled between the bit and bitnot sense lines, and is responsive to a signal on the ROM word line. The ROM bit cell includes first and second ROM pass transistors, a first node for permanently programming connection of the first ROM pass transistor to either a voltage line or a ground line, and a second node for permanently programming connection of the second ROM pass transistor to either the voltage line or the ground line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: VNS Portfolio LLC
    Inventors: Dennis Ray Miller, Mohammad Hafijur Rahman, Mohammad Ehsanul Kabir
  • Publication number: 20100097837
    Abstract: A high performance memory based computation system comprises an array of memory cells. Each memory cell stores a logic data corresponding to a chosen combination of inputs based on a specific logic function. For improved performance, the memory cell array can be divided into sub-blocks; and the sub-blocks can be serially disposed or juxtaposed. The performance of the memory based computation system can further be improved by removing the repeated memory cell rows, column, and/or sub-arrays.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Publication date: April 22, 2010
    Applicant: TOSHIBA AMERICA RESEARCH, INC.
    Inventor: Bipul C. PAUL
  • Patent number: 7698071
    Abstract: Methods and devices, including methods and devices for estimating classifier performance such as generalization performance, are disclosed. One method includes providing multiple samples. Each sample is characterized by one or more features. This method also includes associating a feature variability with at least one of the one or more features on a feature-by-feature basis; and computing a first probability of misclassification by a first classifier using the feature variability. Devices, including integrated circuits (ICs) and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), that are configured for use in carrying out the present methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Assignee: Exagen Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventor: Cole Coryell Harris
  • Patent number: 7688654
    Abstract: A design structure comprising a differential fuse sensing system, which includes a fuse leg configured for introducing a sense current through an electrically programmable fuse (eFUSE) to be sensed, and a differential sense amplifier having a first input node coupled to the fuse leg and a second node coupled to a reference voltage. The fuse leg further includes a current supply device controlled by a variable reference current generator configured to generate an output signal therefrom such that the voltage on the first input node of the sense amplifier is equal to the voltage on the second input node of the sense amplifier whenever the resistance value of the eFUSE is equal to the resistance value of a programmable variable resistance device included within the variable reference current generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Darren Lane Anand, John Atkinson Fifield, Michael Richard Ouellette
  • Patent number: 7684226
    Abstract: A method of making a nonvolatile memory device includes forming a first electrode, forming at least one nonvolatile memory cell including a diode and a metal oxide antifuse dielectric layer over the first electrode, and forming a second electrode over the at least one nonvolatile memory cell. In use, the diode acts as a read/write element of the nonvolatile memory cell by switching from a first resistivity state to a second resistivity state different from the first resistivity state in response to an applied bias.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Sandisk 3D LLC
    Inventor: S. Brad Herner
  • Patent number: 7672150
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate generally to an apparatus, to an embedded memory, to an address decoder, to a method of reading out data and to a method of configuring a memory. In an embodiment of the invention an apparatus is provided. The apparatus may include a plurality of read-only memory (ROM) cells and an address decoder to access a ROM cell of the plurality of ROM cells, the address decoder further being fuse-programmable to divert an access to the ROM cell to a different memory cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: David A. Sellar
  • Publication number: 20100046269
    Abstract: An array of memory cells is disclosed. The memory cell includes a fuse and at least one transistor. The transistor is used to control the programming or sensing of the fuse. A program voltage is applied to a stack of first and second conductive layers. A first portion of the stack couples the program voltage to a terminal of the transistor in a cell. A second portion of the stack couples the program voltage to a terminal of the transistor in another cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Publication date: February 25, 2010
    Inventors: Zhanping Chen, Sarvesh Kulkarni, Kevin Zhang
  • Publication number: 20100039847
    Abstract: In a state of a first semiconductor integrated circuit device on which a first semiconductor integrated circuit board including a first mask ROM and a programmable ROM are mounted, an ultimate program determined by using the programmable ROM is stored in a second ROM of a second semiconductor integrated circuit board which is substantially similar in structure to the first semiconductor integrated circuit board, thereby manufacturing a second semiconductor integrated circuit device as an ultimate product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Publication date: February 18, 2010
    Applicant: Mitsumi Electric Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Koji YANO, Tomoki SEGAWA
  • Patent number: 7664998
    Abstract: A modification of a predetermined, memory-size-dependant number of nonvolatile memory cells turns them into ROM cells with a fixed content pattern. Since these additional ROM cells do not require much effort during manufacturing and use only small additional space on the memory chip or the integrated circuit, but provide significant advantage for testing. When using pairs of essentially symmetrical non-volatile memory cells, each pair having a common bit line, the removal or interruption of this bitline contact may serve to impress a fixed value, e.g. a ‘0’, into this pair and vice versa. During test, a simple and therefore only minimal time requiring pattern, preferably a checkerboard pattern, is written into and read from the non-volatile memory, allowing a quick determination of the decoders' correct function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventors: Steffen Gappisch, Georg Farkas
  • Patent number: 7660143
    Abstract: The invention concerns a ROM comprising a set of memory points arranged in rows and columns, each memory point capable of storing two bits of data and comprising a single switch controllable to connect together first and second terminals of said switch, each of said first and second terminals being connected to one of first, second and third conductive lines, wherein said switch is connected via said first and second terminals between said first and second lines to encode a first data value, between said first and third lines to encode a second data value, between said second and third lines to encode a third data value, and both of said first and second terminals being connected to the same one of said first, second and third lines to encode a fourth data value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Assignee: Dolphin Integration
    Inventors: Olivier Montfort, Sébastien Gaubert, Philippe Beliard
  • Patent number: 7660677
    Abstract: The present invention provides a means of economically, quickly and efficiently designing a physiologically active peptide to a target protein. Specifically, the present invention provides a method of designing a physiologically active peptide characterized in that, to design a physiologically active peptide capable of binding to a target site comprising a consecutive or non-consecutive amino acid sequence in a target protein, a computerized processing is carried out for extracting a preferable amino acid sequence by calculating intermolecular energy etc.; an apparatus therefor; a program for executing the above-described processing by a computer; and a computer-readable recording medium containing the program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventors: Sei-ichi Tanuma, Atsushi Yoshimori
  • Publication number: 20100027312
    Abstract: A compact, shared source line and bit line architecture for a diffusion programmable ROM. In one embodiment, a ROM circuit or instance includes a plurality of storage cells organized as an array of rows columns. A shared source line is associated with a first pair of adjacent columns, the shared source line being maintained at a predetermined level, wherein source terminals of storage cells in the adjacent columns are electrically coupled to the shared source line. A shared bit line is associated with a second pair of adjacent columns, the shared bit line being maintained at the predetermined level, wherein drain terminals of storage cells in the adjacent columns are electrically coupled to the shared bit line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: VIRAGE LOGIC CORP.
    Inventors: Amit Khanuja, Deepak Sabharwal
  • Patent number: 7653491
    Abstract: A method for identifying a quantitative trait loci for a complex trait that is exhibited by a plurality of organisms in a population. The population is divided into a plurality of sub-populations using a classification scheme. Depending on what is known about the population, either a supervised or unsupervised classification is used. The classification scheme is derived from a plurality of cellular constituent measurements obtained from each organism in the population. For each sub-population in the plurality of sub-populations, a quantitative genetic analysis is performed on the sub-population in order to identify one or more quantitative trait loci for the complex trait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Merck & Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Eric E. Schadt, Stephanie A. Monks
  • Publication number: 20100011266
    Abstract: A method for executing a program verify operation in a non-volatile memory. A data register having master and slave latching circuits is used for concurrently storing two different words of data. In a program operation, the master latch stores program data which is used for programming selected memory cells. In a program verify operation, the data programmed to the memory cells are read out and stored in the slave latches. In each data register stage, the logic states of both latches are compared to each other, and a status signal corresponding to a program pass condition is generated if opposite logic states are stored in both latches. The master latch in each stage is inverted if programming was successful, in order to prevent re-programming of that bit of data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Applicant: SIDENSE CORP.
    Inventor: Wlodek Kurjanowicz
  • Patent number: 7646622
    Abstract: A high performance memory based computation system comprises an array of memory cells. Each memory cell stores a logic data corresponding to a chosen combination of inputs based on a specific logic function. For improved performance, the memory cell array can be divided into sub-blocks; and the sub-blocks can be serially disposed or juxtaposed. The performance of the memory based computation system can further be improved by removing the repeated memory cell rows, column, and/or sub-arrays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 12, 2010
    Assignee: Toshiba America Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Bipul C. Paul
  • Publication number: 20090323387
    Abstract: A one-time programmable memory cell is provided, the one-time programmable memory cell comprises: a gate dielectric layer disposed on a well; a gate electrode disposed on the gate dielectric layer; source/drain regions disposed in the well at the sides of the gate electrode, respectively; a first salicide layer disposed on one of the source/drain regions; a capacitive dielectric layer disposed on the gate electrode and the other of the source/drain regions; a first conductive plug disposed on the first salicide layer; and a second conductive plug disposed on the capacitive dielectric layer. The size of the first conductive plug is different form the size of the second conductive plug.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: ART TALENT INDUSTRIAL LIMITED
    Inventors: Chrong-Jung Lin, Ya-Chin King
  • Patent number: 7639559
    Abstract: In a conventional semiconductor memory device, a replica circuit configured by using a dummy bit line has been unable to charge the dummy bit line to a desired potential due to off leak current. Consequently, the time required for charging or discharging the dummy bit line differs from the desired time, and therefore, it has been unable to set optimum operation timing. To solve these problems, a semiconductor memory device of the present invention includes a dummy memory cell array in which source lines of dummy memory cells are charged simultaneously by a charge circuit configured similarly to a dummy bit line charge circuit, thus suppressing off leak current and performing appropriate timing generation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2009
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Masakazu Kurata, Mitsuaki Hayashi
  • Publication number: 20090316463
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to a semiconductor device, including a channel area; a gate line extending along the channel area so that the channel area can be set into a conductive state by activating the gate line; a plurality of terminals including an electrical connection to the channel area, so that the plurality of terminals is connectable to a predetermined voltage by activating the gate line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2008
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Sommer
  • Publication number: 20090316465
    Abstract: A memory device for efficient word line, bit line and precharge tracking is provided. The memory device includes a memory array, one or more address decoders, a word line driver, a plurality of sense amplifiers, a reference word line column, a reference bit line column, and a control circuit. The control circuit generates a control signal to perform read and write operations on the memory device. The address decoder selects a bit line and a word line. The selected word line is activated by the word line driver. While the reference word line column is used for vertical tracking of the word line, the reference bit line column is used for vertical tracking of the bit line. The sense amplifiers are activated to read the bit line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: FREESCALE SEMICONDUCTOR, INC
    Inventors: Sanjeev Kumar JAIN, Davesh Dwivedi
  • Publication number: 20090316464
    Abstract: A ROM includes a ROM array, an address decoder, a control circuit, a precharge tracker, a precharge circuit, a reference word line, a reference bit line and a reference sense generator. The control circuit generates control signals for reading the ROM. The address decoder enables a bit line and a word line. The precharge tracker generates a programmable precharge signal, which is provided to the precharge circuit for precharging the enabled bit line. A reference word line is enabled based on the programmable precharge signal and the control signals for tracking the enabled word line. A reference bit line is enabled based on the reference word line for tracking the enabled bit line. The reference sense generator generates a programmable sense signal based on the reference bit line, the programmable precharge signal and the control signals for reading a bit cell corresponding to the enabled bit line and word line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 22, 2009
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: FREESCALE SEMICONDUCTOR, INC
    Inventors: Ashish Sharma, Sanjeev Kumar Jain, Manmohan Rana
  • Patent number: 7633787
    Abstract: The invention relates to a ROM memory cell comprising a first terminal connected to a word line, comprising a second terminal and comprising a third terminal, the second terminal being connected to a bit line and/or the third terminal being connected to a supply line for precharging the third terminal. The ROM memory cell according to the invention is distinguished by the fact that the same reference potential is in each case applied to the first terminal, the second terminal and/or the third terminal in a standby operating mode. The invention furthermore relates to a ROM memory component comprising such ROM memory cells, and to a method for reading from the ROM memory cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventors: Siddarth Gupta, Jean-Yves Larguier, Gunther Lehmann, Yannick Martelloni
  • Publication number: 20090303769
    Abstract: Electronic apparatus, methods of forming the electronic apparatus, and methods of operating the electronic apparatus include a read only memory having a memory array of bit-lines, where the bit-lines are arranged such that each bit-line has a shared arrangement with one or more other bit-lines of the memory array. Each shared arrangement is structured to operably store a plurality of bits.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Publication date: December 10, 2009
    Applicant: Atmel Corporation
    Inventors: Salwa Bouzekri Alami, Lotfi Ben Ammar
  • Patent number: 7630225
    Abstract: An information storage arrangement that combines rewriteable storage with one-time programmable (OTP) storage is managed in a manner that makes judicious use of the OTP storage. It is therefore possible to exploit the economic advantage associated with OTP storage, while also avoiding storage capacity losses that would otherwise be associated with OTP storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: SanDisk Corporation
    Inventors: Neil A. Dunlop, Kevin P. Kealy
  • Publication number: 20090296448
    Abstract: A voltage down converter for programming a one-time-programmable (OTP) memory comprising is disclosed, the voltage down converter comprises a bonding pad for coupling to a programming power supply, and at least one forward biased diode coupled between the bonding pad and the OTP memory, wherein a programming voltage received by the OTP memory is lowered from the programming power supply by the voltage drop across the forward biased diode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: Fu Lung Hsueh, Shine Chung, Wen-Kuan Fang
  • Patent number: 7623367
    Abstract: A ROM comprises several bit output lines and X address decode lines, and stores a data set. Each address decode line stores a unique data word. Addresses in the data set that have the same data word are mapped by the decoder to the same address decode line. Each address decode line is electrically connected to a bit output line as determined by the data set. An initial design of the ROM uses N connecting devices to respectively electrically connect N of the address decode lines to a bit output line. If N exceeds X/2, then an optimization process is performed. The optimization process involves electrically disconnecting each address decode line that was connected to the bit output line, and electrically connecting each address decode line that was not connected to the bit output line. The output of the bit output line is then run through a logical inverter to provide the correct output data bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: Agere Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Prasad Avss, Ravi Pathakota
  • Publication number: 20090284504
    Abstract: A display driver IC with a built-in memory device having a one-time programmable function is provided. The memory device includes: a cell array comprising a plurality of one-time programmable unit cells and configured to receive a writing voltage generated from an internal voltage generating unit to operate upon writing operation; a detecting unit configured to detect a change of the writing voltage; and a controlling unit configured to control the internal voltage generating unit and the unit cells according to an output signal of the detecting unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventors: Chang- Hee SHIN, Ki-Seok CHO, Kwon-Young OH
  • Patent number: 7619913
    Abstract: In an apparatus for managing area data, the first data structure for area management includes: a first index data structure including a first root node corresponding to a first set of areas containing a first area, first non-leaf nodes, and first leaf nodes; and a first data storage corresponding to the first leaf nodes. The second storage for area data stores one or more second data structures for area management constructed on the basis of area data collected from data in the first storage for area data based on one or more area attributes designated by a user. The second data structure for area management includes: a second index data structure including a second root node corresponding to a second set of areas containing second areas collected based on the one or more area attributes designated, second non-leaf nodes, and second leaf nodes; and a second data storage corresponding to the second leaf nodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Akio Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20090262567
    Abstract: A nonvolatile memory device including one-time programmable (OTP) unit cell is provided. The nonvolatile memory device includes: a unit cell; a detecting unit configured to detect data from the unit cell; and a read voltage varying unit configured to vary an input voltage and supply a varied read voltage to the unit cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventors: Chang-Hee SHIN, Ki-Seok CHO
  • Publication number: 20090262565
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for programming a nonvolatile memory device including one time programmable unit cells. The method for programming a nonvolatile memory device including one time programmable (OTP) unit cells, the method comprising applying a pulse type program voltage having a plurality of cycles. The present invention relates to a method for programming a nonvolatile memory device, which can prevent malfunctions by enhancing a data sensing margin in a read operation through the normal dielectric breakdown of an antifuse during a program operation, and thus improve the reliability in the read operation of an OTP unit cell.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventors: Chang-Hee Shin, Ki-Seok Cho, Si-Hyung Cho
  • Publication number: 20090251942
    Abstract: A memory device of the irreversibly electrically programmable type is provided with a memory cell having a dielectric zone disposed between a first electrode and second electrode. An access transistor is connected in series with the second electrode, and an auxiliary transistor is connected in series with the first electrode. The auxiliary transistor is biased to have a saturation current which is lower than a saturation current of the access transistor when both the auxiliary and access transistors are actuated. A number of the memory cells are arranged in a memory plane to form the memory device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Applicant: STMicroelectronics S.A.
    Inventor: Joel Damien
  • Publication number: 20090237976
    Abstract: N-ary three-dimensional mask-programmable read-only memory (N-3DMPROM) stores multi-bit-per-cell. Its memory cells can have N states (N>2) and data are stored as N-ary codes. N-3DMPROM has a larger storage density than the prior-art binary 3D-MPROM. One advantage of N-3DROM over other N-ary memory (e.g. multi-level-cell flash) is that its array efficiency can be kept high. N-3DMPROM could be geometry-defined, junction-defined, or a combination thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Guobiao ZHANG
  • Publication number: 20090237974
    Abstract: A disclosed embodiment is a programmable memory cell comprising an elevated ground node having a voltage greater than a common ground node by an amount substantially equal to a voltage drop across a trigger point adjustment element. In one embodiment, the trigger point adjustment element can be a diode. The trigger voltage of the programmable memory cell is raised closer to a supply voltage when current passes through the trigger point adjustment element during a write operation. The programmable memory cell can comprise a pair of cross-coupled inverters, and first and second programmable antifuses that can be coupled to each inverter in the pair of cross-coupled inverters. Since the trigger voltage of the programmable memory cell is raised closer to the supply voltage, a programmed antifuse can easily reach below the trigger voltage and result in a successful write operation even when the supply voltage is a low voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Applicant: BROADCOM CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jonathan Schmitt, Joseph Glenn, Douglas Smith, Myron Buer
  • Publication number: 20090237973
    Abstract: A ROM comprises several bit output lines and X address decode lines, and stores a data set. Each address decode line stores a unique data word. Addresses in the data set that have the same data word are mapped by the decoder to the same address decode line. Each address decode line is electrically connected to a bit output line as determined by the data set. An initial design of the ROM uses N connecting devices to respectively electrically connect N of the address decode lines to a bit output line. If N exceeds X/2, then an optimization process is performed. The optimization process involves electrically disconnecting each address decode line that was connected to the bit output line, and electrically connecting each address decode line that was not connected to the bit output line. The output of the bit output line is then run through a logical inverter to provide the correct output data bit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventors: Prasad AVSS, Ravi Pathakola
  • Patent number: 7593817
    Abstract: Computer programs and methods for defining a misidentification probability for an experimental protein divisible into experimental peptides. The invention receives data representing a set of matches of experimental peptides to reference peptides that can be derived from a protein in a database of proteins; calculates a probability of observing by chance, in a search of the database of proteins, a set of matches equivalent to or better than the represented set of matches; and defines the misidentification probability using the probability of observing by chance a set of matches equivalent to or better than the represented set of matches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Thermo Finnigan LLC
    Inventor: Fernando M. Maroto
  • Publication number: 20090231351
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to provide a memory device and a memory application device which can reduce memories and reduce burden on processings by reading out predetermined bit data stored in plural memory addresses as data output from the memory device. The memory device of the present invention is provided with multiplexers (301, . . . , 3n?1n-2) which can selectively output data in memory cells (000, . . . , n?1m-1n-1) outputted by buffer circuits (200, . . . , 2n?1n-1) one-bit by one-bit from each of memory cell arrays (10 to 1n-1) or n bits from one memory cell array.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Keiji Kawashima
  • Publication number: 20090225581
    Abstract: A memory device may include a cathode, an anode, a link connected to the anode, and a first connection element that connects the link to the cathode. The link and the anode may be located in a position lower than that of the cathode or the link and the anode may be located in a position higher than that of the cathode. Also, the cathode, the anode, the link, and the first connection element may be formed on the same plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: Deok-kee Kim, Ha-young You, Young-chang Joo, Jung-hun Sung, Soo-jung Hwang, Sung-yup Jung
  • Publication number: 20090207644
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention disclose a memory architecture for optimizing memory performance and size. Memory optimization is realized by configuring the memory to a particular logic state; that is, restricting memory data storage to either logic “0” or “1.” The opposite logic state, “1” or “0,” can be available through initialization and, therefore, may be presumed. Accordingly, the presumed, initialized logic state is available unless the configured logic state in memory changes the initialized data during memory access. Memory size reduction is realized by restricting physical memory to contain only cells that store data. Memory size can be further reduced by eliminating redundant data rows and columns. By reducing memory size, processing speed can be enhanced and power consumption reduced relative to conventional memory structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Bipul C. Paul
  • Patent number: 7577011
    Abstract: A method for designing a read-only memory (ROM), and related device, includes partitioning a dataset into two or more sub-datasets that each have the same address space, but are of a smaller bit-width than the original dataset. The sub-datasets are row collapsed, and then respective memory cells for the sub-datasets are provided. The output of the memory cells provides the output of the ROM. Each memory cell includes a decoder that maps addresses to word lines based on mapping information obtained during row collapsing, and a logic array driven by the decoder that encodes the data words of the sub-dataset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Agere Systems Inc.
    Inventors: Prasad Avss, Ravi Pathakota
  • Patent number: 7576407
    Abstract: Electrically programmable integrated fuses are provided for low power applications. Integrated fuse devices have stacked structures with a polysilicon layer and a conductive layer formed on the polysilicon layer. The integrated fuses have structural features that enable the fuses to be reliably and efficiently programmed using low programming currents/voltages, while achieving consistency in fusing locations. For example, programming reliability and consistency is achieved by forming the conductive layers with varied thickness and forming the polysilicon layers with varied doping profiles, to provide more precise localized regions in which fusing events readily occur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2009
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Young-Gun Ko, Ja-Hum Ku, Minchul Sun, Robert Weiser
  • Patent number: 7573077
    Abstract: In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a thyristor-based semiconductor memory device may comprise an array of thyristor-based memory formed in an SOI wafer. A supporting substrate may be formed with a density of dopants sufficient to assist delivery of a bias level to the backside of an insulating layer beneath a thyristor. Such conductivity within the substrate may allow reliable back-gate control for the gain of a component bipolar device of the thyristor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: T-RAM Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventor: Maxim Ershov
  • Patent number: 7570505
    Abstract: A high performance logic circuit optimizes a digital logic function by dividing the function into smaller blocks. Thus, the logic circuit is divided into smaller blocks. The smaller blocks are implemented with read-only memory (ROM), in which outputs corresponding to input combination are pre-stored. Inputs to each of the smaller blocks are used as an address to access the ROM.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Toshiba America Research, Inc.
    Inventor: Bipul C. Paul
  • Patent number: 7567478
    Abstract: A method of power optimization in a memory is disclosed. The method generally includes the steps of (A) dividing a plurality of bit cells in a design of the memory into (i) a plurality of first rows storing programmed data and (ii) at least one second row storing only padding data, (B) adjusting the design such that a second power consumption in each of the second rows is lower than a first power consumption in each of the first rows and (C) generating a file defining the design as adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: LSI Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Brown
  • Patent number: 7566941
    Abstract: A magnetoresistive memory cell includes a tunnel barrier region between first and second electrode devices. The first electrode device includes a natural antiferromagnet region. A diffusion barrier region is formed in the first electrode device and serves as a chemical and/or physical transformation region of a surface region or interface region between the tunnel barrier region and the natural antiferromagnet region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2009
    Assignee: Infineon Technologies AG
    Inventor: Manfred Ruehrig
  • Patent number: 7565249
    Abstract: A method is proposed for the selective determination of a light transport parameter which is characteristic for the light scattering in a biological matrix (5), in particular for the purpose of the non-invasive determination of the glucose concentration in the biological matrix. The method comprises providing a plurality of detection measurements, in which light is irradiated as primary light into the biological matrix and measuring an intensity value of secondary light emerging at a plurality detection sites, located in different measuring distances from the irradiation site. In an evaluation step, the light transport parameter is derived, by means of an evaluation algorithm, from the measured intensity values.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 21, 2009
    Assignee: Roche Diagnostics Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Uwe Kraemer, Heinz-Michael Hein, Dietmar Volz
  • Patent number: 7561456
    Abstract: According to one exemplary embodiment, a memory array includes a memory cell having a programmable poly fuse coupled between a designated program node and a ground node, where the programmable poly fuse includes a P type resistive poly segment forming a P-N junction with an adjacent N type resistive poly segment. In the programmable poly fuse, the P type resistive poly segment is coupled to the ground node and the N type resistive poly segment is coupled to the designated program node. The programmable poly fuse further includes a P side silicided poly line contiguous with the P type resistive poly segment and coupled to the ground node. The programmable poly fuse further includes an N side silicided poly line contiguous with the N type resistive poly segment and coupled to the designated program node.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Broadcom Corporation
    Inventor: Laurentiu Vasiliu
  • Patent number: 7561971
    Abstract: Methods and devices, including methods and devices for estimating classifier performance such as generalization performance, are disclosed. One method includes providing multiple samples. Each sample is characterized by one or more features. This method also includes associating a feature variability with at least one of the one or more features; and computing a first probability of misclassification by a first classifier using the feature variability. Devices, including integrated circuits (ICs) and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), that are configured for use in carrying out the present methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Exagen Diagnostics, Inc.
    Inventor: Cole Coryell Harris
  • Patent number: 7554831
    Abstract: A read only memory matrix in an integrated circuit contains data transistors coupled to both the bit lines and the word lines in data dependent ones of the cells of the matrix. A differential sense amplifier has a first input coupled to a bit line, a second input coupled to a reference circuit and a control input for controlling activation and deactivation of amplification by the sense amplifier. A coupling circuit controllably permits charge sharing between a selectable one of the bit lines and the first input. A timing circuit is arranged to signal operation in a first phase, when the word lines have selected a row of the matrix, followed by a second phase. The timing circuit controls the coupling circuit to permit charge sharing between the input and the selectable one of the bit lines in the first phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: NXP B.V.
    Inventor: Albertus Jan Paulus Maria Van Uden
  • Publication number: 20090154217
    Abstract: A high speed sensing scheme for a non-volatile memory array is disclosed. The memory array includes non volatile memory cells arranged in a complementary bitline configuration includes precharge circuits for precharging the bitlines to a first voltage level such as VSS, a reference circuits for applying a reference charge on the reference bitlines of the complementary bitline pairs, and bitline sense amplifiers for sensing a voltage differential between the complementary bitline pairs. A voltage on the data bitline being changed when a programmed non-volatile memory cell connected to an activated wordline couples the wordline voltage to the data bitline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Publication date: June 18, 2009
    Applicant: SIDENSE CORP.
    Inventors: Wlodek KURJANOWICZ, Steven SMITH