Abstract: A method for smoothing variations in threshold voltage in an integrated circuit layout. The method begins by identifying recombination surfaces associated with transistors in the layout. Such recombination surfaces are treated to affect the recombination of interstitial atoms adjacent such surfaces, thus minimizing variations in threshold voltage of transistors within the layout.

Abstract: A CMOS, midpoint sense amplification system for controlling the dynamics of the sense amplification phase of the sense cycle of a CMOS DRAM. The system includes a tracking circuit for initiating the first stage of the sense amplification phase when the differential voltage signal attains a first predetermined value. Circuitry for controlling the sense amplification rate and equalizing current supplied to the source nodes during the first stage is disclosed. In one embodiment, circuitry for detecting when the amplitude of the signal has increased to a second predetermined value and for increasing the sense amplification rate during the second and third stages of the sense amplification phase is disclosed.