NAND MEMORY DEVICE COLUMN CHARGING
First Claim
Patent Images
1. A flash memory device comprising:
- an array of memory cells having a column format arrangement, wherein each column of cells is coupled to a bit line, the bit lines arranged to form a first page and a second page; and
circuitry to apply a voltage to the columns to reduce a column coupling capacitance.
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Abstract
Embodiments of NAND Flash memory devices and methods recognize that effective column coupling capacitance can be reduced by maintaining a sourced voltage on adjacent columns of an array. Maintaining the columns in a charged state prior to array operations (read, write, and program) reduces current surges and improves data read timing. Devices and methods charge the array columns at pre-charge and following array access operations.
51 Citations
22 Claims
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1. A flash memory device comprising:
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an array of memory cells having a column format arrangement, wherein each column of cells is coupled to a bit line, the bit lines arranged to form a first page and a second page; and circuitry to apply a voltage to the columns to reduce a column coupling capacitance. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5)
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6. A method of improving data read timing comprising:
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pre-charging all bit lines of a first page and a second page of a flash memory to a specified positive voltage level, the bit lines formed in a staggered arrangement; and performing a logical operation on an active page while all column bit lines of the inactive page are maintained at the positive voltage level. - View Dependent Claims (7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A flash device comprising:
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a plurality memory cells arranged in columns along bit lines, the bit lines are coupled to form logical pages; and a charging device to provide a positive voltage level to the bit lines prior to initiating a memory access operation to reduce a transient current output from the charging device. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22)
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Specification