Memory Voltage Sensing Circuit for Low-Standby Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing flash memory circuits require additional voltage generation circuits for both active and standby modes, increasing circuit area and power consumption, especially due to the need for a low-power consumption circuit for the standby mode.
Innovation Solution
A memory apparatus with a voltage generation circuit that includes an active voltage circuit and a sensing circuit, where the sensing circuit briefly activates the active voltage circuit to maintain the operating voltage during standby mode, reducing the need for a separate low-power voltage generation circuit for standby mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a separate low-power voltage generation circuit is added for standby mode, then power consumption is reduced, but circuit area and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the standby voltage generation function into the existing active mode voltage generation circuit. The active voltage generation circuit is designed to operate in both active and standby modes, eliminating the need for a separate low-power voltage generation circuit. This consolidation reduces circuit area while maintaining the ability to provide appropriate voltage levels for both operational states.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic activation of the active voltage generation circuit during standby mode. Instead of continuously operating the high-power circuit, it is activated only when needed (periodically) to generate the required voltage for quick transition from standby to active mode. This periodic operation significantly reduces average power consumption during standby while avoiding the need for a dedicated low-power circuit.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the active voltage circuit operates continuously in standby mode, then voltage stability is improved, but power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The active voltage generation circuit is activated periodically during standby mode rather than continuously. The circuit remains in a low-power state most of the time and is briefly activated only when voltage replenishment is needed to maintain stability, thereby achieving voltage stability with minimal power consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a sensing circuit that monitors the voltage level on the bit line during standby mode. When the voltage drops below a threshold, the sensing circuit triggers the active voltage generation circuit to activate and replenish the voltage. This feedback mechanism ensures voltage stability is maintained only when necessary, optimizing the balance between stability and power consumption.
3Measurement precision
If a sensing circuit is added to monitor voltage, then voltage control precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensing circuit is designed to serve multiple functions: it monitors voltage levels during standby mode, detects when voltage replenishment is needed, and triggers the appropriate response. By making the sensing circuit multi-functional, the patent achieves precise voltage control without adding excessive complexity, as the same circuit elements perform multiple tasks rather than requiring separate dedicated circuits for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides a memory apparatus including a memory cell array and a voltage generation circuit. The voltage generation circuit is electrically connected to the memory cell array and includes an active voltage circuit and a sensing circuit. The active voltage circuit is configured to output an operating voltage to the memory cell array when the memory apparatus is in an active mode. The sensing circuit is configured to sense the operating voltage when the memory apparatus is in a standby mode and briefly activate the active voltage circuit to pull up the operating voltage after the operating voltage drops below a threshold.