Abstract: A circuit and method for charging the plate electrodes of a plurality of memory cells. The plate electrodes are initially charged by a voltage generator having a large current driving capacity. After the plate electrodes have reached a predetermined threshold voltage, the large-capacity generator is disconnected or deactivated, and the cells are driven by a second, small capacity generator during a standby period. Switches are responsive to a control signal for selectively enabling and disabling the first and second voltage generators. The control unit initially sets the control signal in accordance with the plate electrode voltage level and a clock signal.