Abstract: A static random access memory (20) with programmable preset data includes two bit line pairs for each column of memory cells (31-36). In response to a control signal during a programming cycle, preset programming logic (28) charges one of the bit line pairs of each column of memory cells to a predetermined logic state and the other bit line pair to a logical complement of the predetermined logic state. Memory cells (31-36) of each column of memory cells are coupled to either one of the two bit line pairs by mask programming. During the programming cycle, each of the memory cells (31-36) store programmed data depending upon which bit line pair each memory cell is coupled to. The memory (20) provides the advantages of a static random access memory and the nonvolatility of a read only memory.

Abstract: A field isolation region is formed by a thermal oxidation followed by a polishing step. In forming the field isolation region, an opening is formed within a nitride layer, but the substrate is not etched. The field isolation region is formed and extends above the opening in the nitride layer. After forming the field isolation region, the substrate is polished, such that the surfaces of the field isolation region and silicon nitride layer are co-planar. The process may be easily integrated into an existing process flow and still provides an integrated circuit having an acceptable field threshold voltage.

Abstract: A screw for use in an plasticating injection apparatus includes a plurality of interrupted primary flights. An outer surface of a primary valley is formed by the primary flights and features a plurality of plateaus. The plateaus span adjacent sections of the primary flights and define shallow levels between deeper levels of the primary valleys. This depth differential contributes to a turbulent mixing action which, along with the primary and secondary valleys, contributes to improve mixing action within a metering section of the screw. The primary flights are interrupted by secondary valleys which are of opposite hand to the primary valleys.

Abstract: A plasticating apparatus and method for its use including a rotating screw having a helical flight disposed within and cooperating with the inner wall of a heated barrel with said barrel provided with inlet and outlet openings so that particles of resinous material are introduced through said inlet opening to a helical valley extending along said flight to be plasticated by said screw and advanced towards said outlet opening. A barrier extends along said helical valley to divide said helical valley into coextensive side by side helical valley sections. The barrier extends in a path which is non-parallel and alternating with respect to the helical flight so that the pitch of the barrier is alternately greater than and less than the pitch of the helical flight. The height of the barrier is less than the height of the flight so that the resinous material overflows the barrier due to changes in width of said side by side helical valley sections.