Abstract: A method for programming a memory cell is based on applying stress to a memory cell, comprising a first electrode, a second electrode and an inter-electrode layer, to induce a progressive change in a property of the inter-electrode layer. The method includes a verify step including generating a signal, such as a cell current, indicating the value of the property in the selected memory cell. Then, the signal is compared with a reference signal to verify programming of the desired data. Because of the progressive nature of the change, many levels of programming can be achieved. The many levels of programming can be applied for programming a single cell more than once, without an erase process, to programming multiple bits in a single cell, and to a combination of multiple bit and multiple time of programming.

Abstract: The lock seal includes a body comprised of two mating shells having grooves generally complementary in shape to and for reception of lock retention sleeves. The sleeves are axially aligned in the shells and have frustoconically shaped portions for receiving interiorly thereof split rings. A wire has a locking element at one end for reception in the body when assembled, whereas the opposite end carries a locking rod having axially spaced grooves. Upon insertion of the locking rod into the open end of the body, the locking rings are expanded against the walls of the frustoconically shaped sleeves to prevent withdrawal of the rod from the body.