Abstract: A new structure and method with a process tracking current source component to program a flash EPROM memory is proposed. By applying a current source which varies not only with the process variation but also with the source bias of the cell being programmed, a self-convergent and high-efficiency programming can be achieved. This process tracking current source component provides less current for cells with higher erased Vt and larger current for cells with lower erased Vt. A circuit for programming a floating gate transistor includes a current source component. The current source component couples in series between the floating gate transistor and an electrical sink during a programming interval. The current source component includes an electrical characteristic substantially matching the electrical characteristic of the floating gate transistor. An integrated circuit memory module on a semiconductor substrate is disclosed.

Abstract: A new structure and method with a process tracking current source component to program a flash EPROM memory is proposed. By applying a current source which varies not only with the process variation but also with the source bias of the cell being programmed, a self-convergent and high-efficiency programming can be achieved. This process tracking current source component provides less current for cells with higher erased Vt and larger current for cells with lower erased Vt.

Abstract: Method for soft-programming at least one floating gate memory cell in at least one page of a persistent memory device by converging the low threshold voltages of the several cells of the page within an optimal range, and apparatus implementing the method. The methodology of the present invention teaches connecting the individual drains of the several memory cells of the device of a given page, or block, to a voltage limited constant current circuitry component. The methodology applies a first positive voltage to the word line of the page and a second positive voltage to the common source in a fixed time period to converge the pages low threshold voltage distribution. The methodology is capable of implementation on either the source or drain side of the memory array.

Abstract: An apparatus for programming selected floating gate storage transistors in a data storage device includes a voltage supply circuit, coupled to the control gate and the source of a selected floating gate storage transistor, to supply a gate programming potential across the control gate and the source to move charge in the floating gate. Circuitry, coupled to the selected floating gate storage transistor, maintains drain current of the selected floating gate transistor at a substantially stable value during programming. In one example, the circuitry is a stable current source in parallel with a load coupled to the source of the selected floating gate transistor. The stable current source, in one embodiment, is a current mirror designed to supply a fixed current level. The load may be a resistor chosen to control a slope of a curve of source current versus source voltage such that drain current variation is limited.