Discharge Circuit Stabilizes Voltage During Sudden Power-Off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Semiconductor devices, such as NAND flash memory, face operational errors due to incomplete discharge of high voltage during sudden power-off, leading to data distortion and read errors.
Innovation Solution
A discharge circuit comprising a depletion high voltage NMOS transistor and a low voltage NMOS transistor, connected between high-voltage and power supply terminals, ensures stable discharge operations by utilizing a reference voltage to maintain constant operations and trigger discharge signals during power-off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a high-voltage generating circuit is used to generate high voltage for write and read operations, then the NAND flash memory can perform normal operations, but during sudden power-off the high voltage cannot be discharged properly causing data distortion and read errors
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge circuit is pre-configured with a discharge switch connected in parallel with the high-voltage generating circuit. When sudden power-off is detected, the discharge switch is activated to provide a discharge path for the high voltage, ensuring proper voltage dissipation before it can cause data distortion or read errors.
Solution Approach 2:
A discharge switch acts as an intermediary component between the high-voltage generating circuit and ground. This switch mediates the discharge process by providing a controlled path for high voltage to dissipate safely, preventing direct damage to the circuit while ensuring complete discharge during power-off conditions.
2Reliability
If the discharge circuit is always active to ensure discharge capability, then discharge operation is reliable, but power consumption increases during normal operation
Solution Approach 1:
The discharge switch transitions from a static always-on state to a dynamic state that is activated only when needed. The circuit monitors power supply status and activates the discharge switch during power-off conditions while keeping it inactive during normal operation, optimizing both reliability and power consumption by adapting to operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The discharge function operates periodically based on power supply events rather than continuously. The discharge switch is activated during power-off events and deactivated during normal operation, creating a periodic activation pattern that ensures discharge capability when needed while minimizing power consumption during normal operation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The discharge circuit effectively stabilizes voltage levels, ensuring normal discharge operations even during sudden power-off, preventing operational errors and maintaining data integrity.
Implementation Method 1
first circuit includes a depletion high voltage NMOS transistor of which a drain connected to the high-voltage terminal, a source connected to a connection node, and a gate receiving a reference voltage
Implementation Method 2
second circuit connected between a power supply voltage terminal and the connection node and suitable for discharging the connection node through the power supply voltage terminal when a power-off of a power supply voltage occurs
Data Source
AI summary
A discharge circuit includes a first circuit connected between a high-voltage terminal and a connection node, wherein first circuit includes a depletion high voltage NMOS transistor of which a drain connected to the high-voltage terminal, a source connected to the connection node, and a gate receiving a reference voltage, and a second circuit connected between a power supply voltage terminal and the connection node and suitable for discharging the connection node through the power supply voltage terminal when a power-off of a power supply voltage occurs. The discharge circuit may stably perform a discharge operation in the case of sudden power-off.