Crossbar Array Programming with Grounded Columns to Limit Sneak Currents
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Solution Overview
Problem
Crossbar array circuits face challenges in reducing signal disturbances such as static sneak current and dynamic sneak current, which can lead to accidental programming of devices.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus includes a crossbar array with a shared end on the columns that is grounded or holds a stable voltage potential, and a method of programming that involves selecting a target device, grounding the target column, and preparing and releasing programming signals after they are fully prepared to minimize sneak currents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If programming signals are released gradually into the crossbar array, then device programming can be performed, but signal disturbances such as static sneak current and dynamic sneak current occur causing accidental programming of devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by fully preparing the programming signal before releasing it into the crossbar array. The signal is prepared in advance with proper voltage levels and timing, then released in a controlled manner to the selected row and column intersection. This prevents sneak currents from occurring during signal preparation phases, as the signal is already configured correctly before entering the array, thereby improving programming accuracy while eliminating harmful sneak current effects.
2Productivity
If multiple devices are programmed simultaneously in a crossbar array, then programming speed increases, but signal disturbances and sneak currents increase causing accidental programming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the crossbar array into independently controllable row and column segments. Each row and column can be selected and programmed independently through dedicated control lines. This segmentation allows multiple devices to be programmed simultaneously in different segments without interfering with each other, maintaining high programming speed while preventing signal disturbances from propagating across the entire array, thus avoiding accidental programming.
3Manufacturing precision
If programming signals are applied to selected row and column, then target device can be programmed, but voltage drops and signal disturbances occur affecting other devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the row and column selection lines as intermediaries to deliver programming signals to the target device. These intermediary lines provide isolated pathways that prevent direct signal interference between different device locations. The programming signal travels through the selected row and column intermediaries to reach only the target device at their intersection, maintaining programming precision while preventing voltage drops and signal disturbances from affecting other devices in the array.
Data Source
AI summary
Crossbar arrays with reduced disturbance and methods for programming the same are disclosed. In some implementations, an apparatus comprises: a plurality of rows; a plurality of first columns; a plurality of second columns; a plurality of devices. Each of the plurality of devices is connected among one of the plurality of rows, one of the plurality of first columns, and one of the plurality of second columns. The device further comprises a shared end on the plurality of first columns or the plurality of the second columns connecting to the plurality of the devices in the same row or column; the shared end is grounding or holds a stable voltage potential. In some implementations, one of the devices is: a RRAM, a floating date, a phase change device, an SRAM, a memristor, or a device with tunable resistance. In some implementations the stable voltage potential is a constant DC voltage.