Abstract: A circuit for predriving a signal conductor includes a logic circuit/level sensing control mechanism that prevents the simultaneous condition of switching devices through which the signal conductor is coupled to respective predrive voltage sources, thereby avoiding the establishment of a current path from a power supply source to ground. First and second controlled current flow paths are provided by way of first and second switching transistor circuits, that are coupled between first and second voltage reference sources, corresponding to first and second logic levels, respectively, and the signal conductor to be driven. To predrive the conductor, the current flow path through one of the transistor circuits is gated on, while the current flow path through the other transistor circuit is interrupted. At the same time the flow of current between the other voltage source and the signal conductor is inhibited, as the signal conductor is brought to an intermediate voltage level.

Abstract: A low power sense amplifier having bit line sensors for sensing the respective voltage levels of a plurality of bit lines, and a latch connected by data lines to the bit lines sensor, for latching the sensed voltage levels. Circuitry of the amplifier prevents formation of a conductive path to ground through both the bit line sensors and the latch when the sensed voltage levels are latched. This provides a sense amplifier which is low in power consumption, while maintaining a relatively high speed, which is particularly useful in CMOS memories.