U.S. patent application number 15/445985 was filed with the patent office on 2018-03-22 for memory device to executed read operation using read target voltage.
The applicant listed for this patent is Toshiba Memory Corporation. Invention is credited to Hiroshi MAEJIMA.
Application Number | 20180082753 15/445985 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61598679 |
Filed Date | 2018-03-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180082753 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MAEJIMA; Hiroshi |
March 22, 2018 |
MEMORY DEVICE TO EXECUTED READ OPERATION USING READ TARGET
VOLTAGE
Abstract
A memory device includes a first string including first and
second memory cells, first and second select transistors, and a
third select transistor between the first and second select
transistors, a second string including third and fourth memory
cells, fourth and fifth select transistors, and a sixth select
transistor between the fourth and fifth select transistors, and a
controller. During a first read phase, a first voltage is applied
to first, second, and third select transistors, and one of fourth
and fifth select transistor, and a second voltage lower than the
first voltage is applied to sixth select transistor and other of
fourth and fifth select transistors. During a second read phase,
the second voltage is applied to fourth, fifth, and sixth select
transistors, and a read target voltage is applied to a selected
word line.
Inventors: |
MAEJIMA; Hiroshi; (Setagaya
Tokyo, JP) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Toshiba Memory Corporation |
Tokyo |
|
JP |
|
|
Family ID: |
61598679 |
Appl. No.: |
15/445985 |
Filed: |
March 1, 2017 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G11C 16/3427 20130101;
G11C 16/3459 20130101; G11C 16/3418 20130101; G11C 16/10 20130101;
G11C 16/26 20130101; G11C 16/32 20130101; G11C 16/16 20130101; G11C
16/0483 20130101; G11C 16/08 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G11C 16/34 20060101
G11C016/34; G11C 16/26 20060101 G11C016/26; G11C 16/04 20060101
G11C016/04; G11C 16/10 20060101 G11C016/10; G11C 16/16 20060101
G11C016/16 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Sep 16, 2016 |
JP |
2016-181534 |
Claims
1. A memory device comprising: a first memory string including a
first memory cell, a second memory cell, a first select transistor
above the first memory cell, a second select transistor below the
second memory cell, and a third select transistor between the first
and second memory cells; a second memory string including a third
memory cell, a fourth memory cell, a fourth select transistor above
the third memory cell, a fifth select transistor below the fourth
memory cell, and a sixth select transistor between the third and
fourth memory cells; a first word line electrically connected to
gates of the first and third memory cells; a second word line
electrically connected to gates of the second and fourth memory
cells; and a controller configured to execute a read operation on
one of the memory cells, the read operation including a first phase
and a second phase, wherein when a read target is one of the first
and second memory cells, during the first phase, a first voltage is
applied to the first, second, and third select transistors, and one
of the fourth and fifth select transistors, and a second voltage
lower than the first voltage is applied to the sixth select
transistor and the other one of the fourth and fifth select
transistors, and during the second phase, the second voltage is
applied to the fourth, fifth, and sixth select transistors, and a
read target voltage is applied to one of the first and second word
lines.
2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, when the read target
is the first memory cell, during the first phase, the first voltage
is applied to the first, second, third, and fourth select
transistors, and the second voltage is applied to the fifth and
sixth select transistors, and during the second phase, the second
voltage is applied to the fourth, fifth, and sixth select
transistors, and the read target voltage is applied to the first
word line.
3. The device according to claim 1, wherein, when the read target
is the second memory cell, during the first phase, the first
voltage is applied to the first, second, third, and fifth select
transistors, and the second voltage is applied to the fourth and
sixth select transistors, and during the second phase, the second
voltage is applied to the fourth, fifth, and sixth select
transistors, and the read target voltage is applied to the second
word line.
4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the read operation is
carried out during a program verify operation.
5. The device according to claim 1, wherein at a beginning of the
second phase, the voltage applied to the second select transistor
transitions from the first voltage to the second voltage, and
during the second phase, the voltage applied to the second select
transistor transitions from the second voltage to the first
voltage.
6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second voltage is
ground voltage.
7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the second voltage is
higher than ground voltage.
8. A memory device comprising: a first memory string including a
first memory cell, a second memory cell, a first select transistor
above the first memory cell, a second select transistor below the
second memory cell, and a third select transistor between the first
and second memory cells; a second memory string including a third
memory cell, a fourth memory cell, a fourth select transistor above
the third memory cell, a fifth select transistor below the fourth
memory cell, and a sixth select transistor between the third and
fourth memory cells; a first word line electrically connected to
gates of the first and third memory cells; a second word line
electrically connected to gates of the second and fourth memory
cells; and a controller configured to execute a read operation on
one of the memory cells, the read operation including a first phase
and a second phase, wherein when a read target is one of the first
and second memory cells, during the first phase, a first voltage is
applied to the first and third select transistors, and one of the
fourth and fifth select transistors, and a second voltage lower
than the first voltage is applied to the second and sixth select
transistor and the other one of the fourth and fifth select
transistors, and during the second phase, the first voltage is
applied to the second select transistor, and the second voltage is
applied to the fourth, fifth, and sixth select transistors.
9. The device according to claim 8, wherein during the first phase,
the voltage applied to one of the first and second word lines is
increased from the second voltage while the voltage applied to the
other one of the first and second word lines is equal to the second
voltage.
10. The device according to claim 9, wherein when the read target
is the first memory cell, during the first phase, the voltage
applied to the first word line is increased from the second voltage
while the voltage applied to the second word line is equal to the
second voltage.
11. The device according to claim 8, wherein the read operation is
carried out during a program verify operation.
12. The device according to claim 8, wherein at a beginning of the
second phase, the voltage applied to the second select transistor
is maintained at the second voltage, and during the second phase,
the voltage applied to the second select transistor transitions
from the second voltage to the first voltage.
13. The device according to claim 8, wherein the second voltage is
ground voltage.
14. A memory device comprising: a first memory string including a
first memory cell, a second memory cell, a first select transistor
above the first memory cell, a second select transistor below the
second memory cell, and third and fourth select transistors between
the first and second memory cells; a second memory string including
a third memory cell, a fourth memory cell, a fifth select
transistor above the third memory cell, a sixth select transistor
below the fourth memory cell, and seventh and eighth select
transistors between the third and fourth memory cells; a first word
line electrically connected to gates of the first and third memory
cells; a second word line electrically connected to gates of the
second and fourth memory cells; and a controller configured to
execute a read operation on one of the memory cells, the read
operation including a first phase and a second phase, wherein when
a read target is one of the first and second memory cells, during
the first phase, a first voltage is applied to the first, second,
third, and fourth select transistors, one of the fifth and sixth
select transistors, and one of the seventh and eighth select
transistors, and a second voltage lower than the first voltage is
applied to the sixth select transistor and the other one of the
seventh and eighth select transistors, and during the second phase,
the second voltage is applied to the fifth and sixth select
transistors, and the other one of the seventh and eighth select
transistors, and the voltage applied to said one of the seventh and
eighth select transistors is maintained at the first voltage.
15. The device according to claim 14, wherein, when the read target
is the first memory cell, during the first phase, the first voltage
is applied to the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and eighth
select transistors, and the second voltage is applied to the sixth
and seventh select transistors, and during the second phase, the
second voltage is applied to the fifth, sixth, and seventh select
transistors, and a read target voltage is applied to the first word
line.
16. The device according to claim 15, wherein at a beginning of the
second phase, the voltage applied to the second select transistor
transitions from the first voltage to the second voltage, and
during the second phase, the voltage applied to the second select
transistor transitions from the second voltage to the first
voltage.
17. The device according to claim 14, wherein, when the read target
is the second memory cell, during the first phase, the first
voltage is applied to the first, second, third, fourth, sixth, and
seventh select transistors, and the second voltage is applied to
the fifth and eighth select transistors, and during the second
phase, the second voltage is applied to the fifth, sixth, and
eighth select transistors, and a read target voltage is applied to
the second word line.
18. The device according to claim 17, wherein at a beginning of the
second phase, the voltage applied to the second select transistor
transitions from the first voltage to the second voltage, and
during the second phase, the voltage applied to the second select
transistor transitions from the second voltage to the first
voltage.
19. The device according to claim 14, wherein the read operation is
carried out during a program verify operation.
20. The device according to claim 14, wherein the second voltage is
ground voltage.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of
priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-181534, filed
Sep. 16, 2016, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein
by reference.
FIELD
[0002] Embodiments described herein relate generally to a memory
device.
BACKGROUND
[0003] A NAND type flash memory in which memory cells are arranged
in a three-dimensional manner is known.
DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a memory system
including a memory device of an embodiment.
[0005] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an
internal configuration of the memory device of the embodiment.
[0006] FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of a
memory cell array of the memory device of the embodiment.
[0007] FIG. 4 is a circuit diagram illustrating an example of a row
control circuit of the memory device of the embodiment.
[0008] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the memory cell array of the
memory device of the embodiment.
[0009] FIG. 6 is a plan view of the memory cell array of the memory
device of the embodiment.
[0010] FIG. 7 is a sectional view of the memory cell array of the
memory device of the embodiment.
[0011] FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a memory string in the memory
cell array of the memory device of the embodiment.
[0012] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between
threshold voltage of the memory cell and data.
[0013] FIG. 10A is a schematic diagram of a first example for
explaining a release process carried out in the memory device of
the embodiment.
[0014] FIG. 10B is a schematic diagram of a second example for
explaining a release process carried out in the memory device of
the embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining an operation example
of the memory device of the embodiment.
[0016] FIGS. 12-16 are each a timing chart illustrating an
operation example of a memory device according to a first
embodiment.
[0017] FIGS. 17-18 are each a timing chart illustrating an
operation example of a memory device of a second embodiment.
[0018] FIG. 19 is a timing chart illustrating an operation example
of a memory device of a third embodiment.
[0019] FIG. 20 is a timing chart illustrating an operation example
of a memory device of a fourth embodiment.
[0020] FIGS. 21-22 are each a timing chart illustrating an
operation example of a memory device of a fifth embodiment.
[0021] FIGS. 23-24 are each a timing chart illustrating an
operation example of a memory device of a sixth embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 25 is a timing chart illustrating an operation example
of a memory device of a seventh embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 26 is a timing chart illustrating an operation example
of a memory device of an eighth embodiment.
[0024] FIGS. 27-28 are each a timing chart illustrating an
operation example of a memory device of a ninth embodiment.
[0025] FIGS. 29-30 are each a timing chart illustrating an
operation example of a memory device of a tenth embodiment.
[0026] FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating a modification example of
the memory device of the embodiment.
[0027] FIGS. 32A and 32B are diagrams illustrating a modification
example of the memory device of the embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating a modification example of
the memory device of the embodiment.
[0029] FIGS. 34A to 34F are diagrams illustrating a modification
example of the memory device of the embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] Operation characteristics of a memory device are improved
according to embodiments.
[0031] In general, according to an embodiment, a memory device
includes a first memory string including a first memory cell, a
second memory cell, a first select transistor above the first
memory cell, a second select transistor below the second memory
cell, and a third select transistor between the first and second
memory cells, a second memory string including a third memory cell,
a fourth memory cell, a fourth select transistor above the third
memory cell, a fifth select transistor below the fourth memory
cell, and a sixth select transistor between the third and fourth
memory cells, a first word line electrically connected to the first
and third memory cells, a second word line electrically connected
to the second and fourth memory cells, and a controller configured
to execute a read operation on one of the memory cells, the read
operation including a first phase and a second phase. When a read
target is one of the first and second memory cells, during the
first phase, a first voltage is applied to the first, second, and
third select transistors, and one of the fourth and fifth select
transistors, and a second voltage lower than the first voltage is
applied to the sixth select transistor and the other one of the
fourth and fifth select transistors, and during the second phase,
the second voltage is applied to the fourth, fifth, and sixth
select transistors, and a read target voltage is applied to one of
the first and second word lines.
[0032] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, the present
embodiment will be described in detail. In the following
description, constituent elements having the same function and
configuration are given the same reference numerals.
[0033] In the following respective embodiments, if constituent
elements with reference signs (for example, word lines WL, bit
lines BL, and various voltages and signals) have numbers/letters at
ends thereof for differentiation. If they are not to be
distinguished from each other, the constituent elements are
described with reference signs with the numbers/letters omitted at
the ends thereof.
EMBODIMENTS
(1) First Embodiment
[0034] With reference to FIGS. 1 to 16, a memory device according
to an embodiment will be described.
[0035] (a) Configuration
[0036] With reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, a description will be made
of a configuration example of the memory device of the
embodiment.
[0037] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a memory system including
the memory device of the present embodiment.
[0038] As illustrated in FIG. 1, a memory system 9 including the
memory device of the present embodiment includes a storage device
500 and a host device 600.
[0039] The host device 600 is coupled to the storage device 500
via, for example, a connector, a cable, wireless communication, or
the Internet. The host device 600 requests the storage device 500
to perform writing of data or erasing of data or reading of
data.
[0040] The storage device 500 includes a memory controller 5, and a
memory device (semiconductor memory) 1.
[0041] The memory controller 5 causes the memory device 1 to
perform an operation corresponding to a request from the host
device 600.
[0042] The memory controller 5 includes, for example, a processor
(CPU), an internal memory (for example, a DRAM), a buffer memory
(for example, an SRAM), and an ECC circuit. The processor controls
the entire operation of the memory controller 5. The internal
memory temporarily holds a program (software/firmware) and
management information (management table) of the storage device/the
memory device. The buffer memory temporarily holds data transmitted
and received between the memory device 1 and the host device 600.
The ECC circuit detects an error in data read from the memory
device 1, and corrects the detected error.
[0043] The memory device 1 stores data. The memory device 1
performs writing of data, reading of data, and erasing of data
based on commands (requests from the host device 600) from the
memory controller 5.
[0044] The memory device 1 is, for example, a NAND type flash
memory. The storage device 500 (or the memory system 9) including
the flash memory 1 is, for example, a memory card (for example, an
SD.TM. card or an eMMC.TM.), a USB memory, or a solid state drive
(SSD).
[0045] Various signals are transmitted and received between the
NAND type flash memory 1 and the memory controller 5. For example,
a chip enable signal CEn, a command latch enable signal CLE, an
address latch enable signal ALE, a write enable signal WEn, a read
enable signal REn, and a write protect signal WPn are used as
control signals based on a NAND interface standard between the
flash memory 1 and the memory controller 5.
[0046] The signal CEn is used to enable the flash memory 1. The
signal CLE and the signal ALE are used to respectively notify that
signals on I/O lines IO (IO1 to IO8) are a command and an address
signal.
[0047] The signal WEn and the signal REn are used to given an
instruction for inputting and outputting of signals using, for
example, eight I/O lines IO. The signal WPn is used to set the
flash memory 1 in a protection state, for example, when a power
source is turned on and off.
[0048] A ready/busy signal RBn is generated based on an operation
state of the flash memory 1, and is transmitted to the memory
controller 5. The signal RBn is used to notify the memory
controller 5 whether the flash memory 1 is in a ready state (a
state of being ready to receive a command from the memory
controller 5) or a busy state (a state of not being ready to
receive a command from the memory controller 5). For example, the
signal RBn is at an "L" level (busy state) while the flash memory 1
is performing an operation such as reading of data, and goes to an
"H" level (ready state) if such an operation is completed.
[0049] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal
configuration of the memory device (for example, a NAND type flash
memory) of the present embodiment.
[0050] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the NAND type flash memory 1
includes a memory cell array 11, a row control circuit 12, a sense
amplifier circuit 13, a data holding circuit 14, a source line
driver 15, a well driver 16, an input/output circuit 17, a voltage
generation circuit 18, a sequencer 19, and the like.
[0051] The memory cell array 11 includes a plurality of blocks BK
(BK0, BK1, BK2, . . . ). Each of the blocks BK includes a plurality
of string units SU (SU0, SU1, SU2, . . . ). Each of the string
units SU includes a plurality of NAND strings (memory cell strings)
111. Each of the NAND strings 111 includes a plurality of memory
cells. An internal configuration of the memory cell array 11 will
be described later.
[0052] The row control circuit 12 controls rows (for example, word
lines) of the memory cell array 11.
[0053] The row control circuit 12 includes a plurality of address
decoders 120, a plurality of switch circuits 121, and a driver 129.
A single address decoder 120 corresponds to a single block BK. A
single switch circuit corresponds to a single block BK. The address
decoders 120 decode addresses from the memory controller 5. The
switch circuits 121 enable blocks BK corresponding to addresses,
and disable other blocks BK based on decoding results in the
address decoders 120. The driver 129 supplies voltages
corresponding to enabling/disabling of the blocks BK to the
respective blocks BK via the switch circuits 121.
[0054] The sense amplifier circuit 13 senses and amplifies a signal
(data) which is output to a bit line in the memory cell array 11
during reading of data. For example, the sense amplifier circuit 13
senses the occurrence of a current in the bit line (or a wiring
connected to the bit line) or a change in a potential of the bit
line, as a signal from the memory cell. Based on such sensing, the
sense amplifier circuit 13 reads data held in the memory cell. The
sense amplifier circuit 13 controls a potential of the bit line
according to data to be written during writing of data. The sense
amplifier circuit 13 includes sense amplifier units 131 which
control sensing in respective bit lines, and the bit lines.
[0055] The data holding circuit (for example, a page buffer
circuit) 14 temporarily holds data which is output from the memory
cell array 11, or data (data from the memory controller 5) which is
input to the memory cell array 11.
[0056] The source line driver 15 controls potentials of source
lines in the memory cell array 11. The well driver 16 controls a
potential of a well region in the memory cell array 11.
[0057] The input/output circuit 17 functions as an interface
circuit of the above-described various control signals from the
memory controller 5 and the I/O lines IO1 to IO8. The voltage
generation circuit 18 generates various voltages used for an
operation of the memory cell array 11.
[0058] The sequencer 19 controls the entire operation of the flash
memory 1. The sequencer 19 controls an internal operation of the
flash memory 1 based on control signals and commands which are
transmitted and received between the memory controller 5 and the
flash memory 1.
[0059] Circuit Configuration of Memory Cell Array
[0060] With reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, a description will be made
of an example of an internal configuration of the memory cell array
in the flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0061] FIG. 3 is an equivalent circuit diagram of a single block in
the memory cell array 11. In the memory cell array 11 of the NAND
type flash memory, the block BK is an erasing unit of data.
However, an erasing operation on the memory cell array 11 may be
performed in the unit (storing area) smaller than the block. The
erasing operations disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.
12/679,991, filed on Mar. 25, 2010, entitled "nonvolatile
semiconductor memory device and manufacturing method thereof," and
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/532,030, filed on Mar. 23,
2009, entitled "semiconductor memory and manufacturing method
thereof," both of which are incorporated by reference herein, may
be used in the embodiments.
[0062] As illustrated in FIG. 3, in the memory cell array 11, a
single block BK includes a plurality of (for example, two) areas
FNG (FNG0 and FNG1). Each of the areas FNG includes one or more
string units SU. For example, a single area FNG includes two string
units SU.
[0063] Each of the NAND strings 111 includes a plurality of memory
cells (also referred to as memory portions or memory elements) MC
and a plurality of select transistors ST1 and ST2.
[0064] Each of the memory cells MC (MC0, MC1, . . . , MC(m-2), and
MC(m-1)) includes a control gate and a charge storage layer. In the
NAND string 111, the plurality of memory cells MC are connected in
series to each other between the two select transistors ST1 and
ST2. Among the plurality of memory cells MC connected in series to
each other, one end (one of a source or a drain) of the memory cell
MC on a drain side is connected to one end of the drain side select
transistor ST1. Among the plurality of memory cells MC connected in
series to each other, one end of the memory cell MC on a source
side is connected to one end of the source side select transistor
ST2.
[0065] A plurality of word lines WL (WL0, WL1, . . . , WL(m-2), and
WL(m-1)) are respectively connected to gates of the corresponding
memory cells MC. Here, "m" is a natural number of 2 or more. For
example, a single word lines WL is connected in common to the
memory cells MC in a plurality of string units SU.
[0066] Data writing and data reading are collectively performed on
the memory cells MC connected to any one of word lines WL in any
one of string units SU. The unit of data reading and data writing
is referred to as a page.
[0067] A plurality of drain side select gate lines SGD (SGD0 to
SGD3) are respectively connected to gates of the drain side select
transistors ST1 of the corresponding string units SU.
[0068] A plurality of source side select gate lines SGS (SGS0 and
SGS1) are connected in common to gates of the source side select
transistors ST2 of the string units SU. In the example illustrated
in FIG. 3, two source side select gate lines SGS are provided in a
single block BK. A single source side select gate line SGS is used
in common for two string units SU in the area FNG. The two source
side select gate lines SGS in two different areas FNG are separated
from each other.
[0069] A source line SL is connected to the other end (the other of
the source and the drain) of the source side select transistor ST2.
The other end of the drain side select transistor ST1 is connected
to any one of a plurality of bit lines BL (BL0, BL1, . . . , and
BL(n-1)). Here, "n" is a natural number of 1 or more.
[0070] In the flash memory of the present embodiment, the block BK
includes a plurality of select gate lines SGM (SGM0 and SGM1)
Consequently, each of the NAND strings 111 includes one or more
select transistors ST3.
[0071] One or more select gate lines SGM are provided in a single
area FNG. The select gate line SGM is provided between two word
lines WLi and WL(i-1). Here, "i" is a natural number of 0 or more
and (m-1) or less.
[0072] For example, in the area FNG, the select gate line SGM is
used in common for a plurality of string units SU. In the example
illustrated in FIG. 3, one select gate line SGM0 is connected to
the string units SU0 and SU1, and the other select gate line SGM1
is connected to the string units SU2 and SU3. Consequently, the
select gate lines SGM are controlled separately for each area
FNG.
[0073] The select transistor ST3 is provided between two memory
cells MC in the NAND string 111. One end of the select transistor
ST3 is connected to one end of the memory cells MC adjacent to each
other on the drain side. The other end of the select transistor ST3
is connected to one end of the memory cells MC adjacent to each
other on the source side. A gate of the select transistor ST3 is
connected to the select gate line SGM.
[0074] In the description given herein, the select gate lines SGM
will be referred to as intermediate select gate lines SGM. The
select transistors ST3 connected to the intermediate select gate
lines SGM will be referred to as intermediate select transistors
ST3.
[0075] As illustrated in FIG. 3, a plurality of memory cells MC are
provided between the drain side select transistor ST1 and the
intermediate select transistor ST3. A plurality of memory cells MC
are provided between the source side select transistor ST2 and the
intermediate select transistor ST3. The flash memory 1 of the
present embodiment can control electrical connection between the
plurality of memory cells on the drain side and the plurality of
memory cells on the source side by using the intermediate select
transistors ST3 and the intermediate select gate lines SGM.
[0076] A dummy word line may be provided in each string unit SU.
The dummy word line is configured with at least one word line
provided near each of select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM. In the
flash memory of the present embodiment, at least one of word lines
WL adjacent to the select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM, for example,
at least one of word lines WL0, WL(i-1), WLi, and WL(m-1) may be
used as the dummy word line. The dummy word line has an address
which is not selected as a data writing target. Memory cells
connected to the dummy word line are not used to hold data from a
user.
[0077] The number of blocks BK in the memory cell array 11, the
number of string units SU in a single block BK, or the number of
memory cells MC in the NAND string 111 is not limited to any
particular number.
[0078] Two or more intermediate select gate lines SGM may be
provided in a single string unit SU. In such a case, a plurality of
intermediate select transistors are provided in a single NAND
string 111. A single intermediate select gate line SGM may be
provided separately for each of a plurality of string units SU. In
such a case, a single intermediate select gate line SGM is provided
in a single string unit SU.
[0079] The source side select gate lines SGS may be separately
provided in the respective string units SU.
[0080] A selected string unit and a non-selected string unit are
set in the block by controlling a potential of the select gate
line.
[0081] FIG. 4 is a schematic equivalent circuit diagram for
explaining an internal configuration of the row control circuit in
the flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0082] As illustrated in FIG. 4, a single address decoder 120 and a
single switch circuit 121 are provided for a single block BK.
[0083] The switch circuit 121 is connected to selection signal
lines 90 and 90z of the address decoder. The switch circuit 121 can
control enabling and disabling of the block BK based on signals
(address decoding results) DEC and bDEC from the address decoder
120. The signals DEC and bDEC have mutually complementary signal
levels (an "H" level and an "L" level).
[0084] The switch circuit 121 includes a word line switch unit 291,
a drain side select gate line switch unit 292, a source side select
gate line switch unit 293, and an intermediate select gate line
switch unit 294. Each of the switch units 291, 292, 293 and 294
includes a high breakdown voltage transistor as a switch.
[0085] The word line switch unit 291 includes switches (selection
switches) WSW of the same number as the number of word lines in the
block BK. One end of a current path of each switch WSW is connected
to a single word line WL, and the other end of the current path of
each switch WSW is connected to a single CG line CG corresponding
to the word line WL. A control terminal (a gate of the transistor)
of each switch WSW is connected to the selection signal line 90 of
the address decoder 120. Turning-on and turning-off of each switch
WSW are controlled based on the signal (block selection signal) DEC
on the selection signal line 90.
[0086] A turned-on switch WSW allows various voltages corresponding
to operations of the flash memory to be transmitted to the word
lines WL in the selected block BK.
[0087] The drain side select gate line switch unit 292 includes a
plurality of switches (selection switches) DSW0, DSW1, DSW2 and
DSW3. The number of switches DSW0 to DSW3 is the same as the number
of drain side select gate lines SGD in the block. The switches DSW0
to DSW3 respectively correspond to the drain side select gate lines
SGD0 to SGD3 on a one-to-one basis.
[0088] One ends of the switches DSW0 to DSW3 are connected to the
drain side select gate lines SGD0 to SGD3. The other ends of the
switches DSW0 to DSW3 are respectively connected to wirings SGDI0
to SGDI3.
[0089] Control terminals of the respective the switches DSW0 to
DSW3 are connected to the selection signal line 90.
[0090] Turning-on and turning-off of the switches DSW0 to DSW3 are
controlled based on the signal DEC.
[0091] The drain side select gate line switch unit 292 includes a
plurality of switches (non-selection switches) UDSW0, UDSW1, UDSW2
and UDSW3. The number of switches UDSW is the same as the number of
drain side select gate lines SGD in the block BK. The switches
UDSW0, UDSW1, UDSW2 and UDSW3 respectively correspond to the drain
side select gate lines SGD0 to SGD3 on a one-to-one basis.
[0092] One ends of the switches UDSW0, UDSW1, UDSW2 and UDSW3 are
respectively connected to the drain side select gate lines SGD0 to
SGD3. The other ends of the switches UDSW0, UDSW1, UDSW2 and UDSW3
are connected in common to a wiring USGDI. Control terminals of the
switches UDSW are connected to the selection signal line 90z.
Turning-on and turning-off of the switches UDSW are controlled
based on the signal bDEC.
[0093] If the switches DSW are turned on due to the signal DEC
having an "H" level, the switches UDSW are turned off due to the
signal having an "L" level. In this case, the drain side select
gate lines SGD are respectively electrically connected to the
wirings SGDI. The turned-on switches DSW allow voltages applied to
the respective wirings SGDI according to operations of the flash
memory and selection addresses to be transmitted to the drain side
select gate lines SGD in a selected block.
[0094] If the switches UDSW are turned on due to the signal bDEC
having an "H" level, the drain side select gate lines SGD are
respectively electrically connected to the wirings USGDI. The
turned-on switches UDSW allow voltages of the wirings USGDI to be
transmitted to the drain side select gate lines SGD in a
non-selected block.
[0095] The source side select gate line switch unit 293 includes a
plurality of switches (selection switches) SSW0 and SSW1. The
number of switches SSW0 and SSW1 is the same as the number of
source side select gate lines SGS in the block BK. The switches
SSW0 and SSW1 respectively correspond to the source side select
gate lines SGS0 and SGS1 on a one-to-one basis.
[0096] One ends of the switches SSW0 and SSW1 are respectively
connected to the source side select gate lines SGS0 and SGS1. The
other ends of the switches SSW0 and SSW1 are respectively connected
to wirings SGSI0 and SGSI1.
[0097] Control terminals of the switches SSW0 and SSW1 are
connected to the selection signal line 90 of the address decoder
120. Turning-on and turning-off of the switches SSW0 and SSW1 are
controlled based on the signal DEC.
[0098] The source side select gate line switch unit 293 includes a
plurality of switches (non-selection switches) USSW0 and USSW1. The
number of switches USSW0 and USSW1 is the same as the number (for
example, two) of source side select gate lines SGS in the block BK.
The switches USSW respectively correspond to the source side select
gate lines SGS on a one-to-one basis.
[0099] One ends of the switches USSW0 and USSW1 are respectively
connected to the source side select gate lines SGS0 and SGS1. The
other ends of the switches USSW0 and USSW1 are connected in common
to wirings USGSI.
[0100] Control terminals of the switches USSW are connected to the
selection signal line 90z. Turning-on and turning-off of the
switches USSW are controlled based on the signal bDEC.
[0101] If the switches SSW are turned on, and the switches USSW are
turned off, based on the signals DEC and bDEC, the turned-on
switches SSW allow voltage applied to the wirings SGSI according to
operations of the flash memory and selection addresses to be
transmitted to the source side select gate lines SGS. In contrast,
if the switches SSW are turned off, and the switches USSW are
turned on, the turned-on switches USSW allow a voltage applied to
the wiring USGSI to be transmitted to the source side select gate
lines SGS.
[0102] In the flash memory 1 of the present embodiment, the block
BK includes the intermediate select gate lines SGM. Switches
(selection switches) MSW0 and MSW1 correspond to the intermediate
select gate lines SGM0 and SGM1, and switches (non-selection
switches) UMSW0 and UMSW1 respectively correspond to the
intermediate select gate lines SGM0 and SGM1.
[0103] The number of switches MSW and the number of switches UMSW
are selected according to the number of the intermediate select
gate lines SGM in a single block BK. As in the example illustrated
in FIG. 3, if two intermediate select gate lines SGM are provided
in a single block BK, the number of switches MSW is two, and the
number of switches UMSW is two.
[0104] One ends of the switches MSW0 and MSW1 are respectively
connected to the intermediate select gate lines SGM0 and SGM1, and
the other ends of the switches MSW0 and MSW1 are respectively
connected to wirings SGMI0 and SGMI1. Control terminals of the
switches MSW are connected to the selection signal line 90.
Turning-on and turning-off of the switches MSW are controlled based
on the signal DEC.
[0105] One ends of the switches UMSW0 and UMSW1 are respectively
connected to the intermediate select gate lines SGM0 and SGM1, and
the other ends of the switches UMSW0 and UMSW1 are connected to a
wiring USGMI. Gates of the switches UMSW are connected to the
selection signal line 90z. Turning-on and turning-off of the
switches UMSW are controlled based on the signal bDEC.
[0106] If the switches MSW are turned on, and the switches UMSW are
turned off, based on the signals DEC and bDEC, the turned-on
switches MSW allow voltage applied to the wirings SGMI according to
operations of the flash memory and selection addresses to be
transmitted to the intermediate select gate lines SGM. In contrast,
if the switches MSW are turned off, and the switches UMSW are
turned on, the turned-on switches UMSW allow a voltage applied to
the wiring USGMI to be transmitted to the intermediate select gate
lines SGM.
[0107] The number of switches in the switch circuit 121 is changed
depending on the number of word lines and select gate lines in the
block BK.
Structure Example
[0108] With reference to FIGS. 5 to 7, a description will be given
for a structure example of the flash memory of the present
embodiment.
[0109] FIG. 5 is a perspective view schematically illustrating a
structure example of the memory cell array in the flash memory of
the present embodiment.
[0110] FIG. 5 illustrates an extracted single area FNG (two string
units SU) of the two areas FNG in a single block.
[0111] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the flash memory of the present
embodiment includes the memory cell array 11 having a
three-dimensional structure. A plurality of memory cells MC are
arranged in a D1 direction and a D2 direction which are parallel to
a surface of a substrate 700, and are stacked in a D3 direction
which is perpendicular to the surface of the substrate 700. The
select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM and the word lines WL are
stacked in the D3 direction.
[0112] The word lines WL and the select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM
are configured with conductive layers 70, 71, 72 and 73. Insulating
layers 77 are provided between the stacked conductive layers 70,
71, 72 and 73. Consequently, in the stacked conductive layers 70,
71, 72 and 73, a certain conductive layer is electrically separated
from an underlying or an overlying conductive layer.
[0113] Semiconductor pillars 75 are provided in the stacked select
gate lines SGD (71), SGS (72) and SGM (73), and the word lines WL
(70). The semiconductor pillars 75 are columnar semiconductor
layers extending in the D3 direction.
[0114] The memory cells MC and the select transistors ST1, ST2 and
ST3 are provided on side surfaces of the semiconductor pillars 75.
More specific structures of the memory cells MC and the select
transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3 will be described later.
[0115] The select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM and the word lines WL
are extracted in the D2 direction in a region 199 on one end side
of the memory cell array 11. The region 199 in which the select
gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM and the word lines WL are extracted
will be referred to as an extraction region (or a hookup region).
The extraction region 199 is provided on one end side of the memory
cell array 11.
[0116] A stacked structure including the wirings WL, SGD, SGS and
SGM has a stepped shape in the extraction region 199.
[0117] Consequently, upper surfaces of the respective wirings are
exposed at ends of the wirings WL, SGD, SGS and SGM in the
extension direction (D2 direction), and thus regions (hereinafter,
referred to as contact regions) in which contact plugs CP are
disposed are secured on the upper surfaces of the respective
wirings.
[0118] The source side select gate lines SGS (conductive layers 72)
are provided under the stacked structure. The drain side select
gate lines SGD (conductive layers 71) are provided on an upper side
in the stacked structure. The plurality of word lines WL are
provided between the drain side select gate lines SGD and the
source side select gate lines SGS in the D3 direction.
[0119] In the present embodiment, the intermediate select gate
lines SGM are provided between the drain side select gate lines SGD
and the source side select gate lines SGS in the D3 direction. The
intermediate select gate lines SGM are interposed between the word
lines WL (or the dummy word lines) in the D3 direction.
[0120] The plurality of word lines WL (conductive layers 70) are
divided into two groups with the intermediate select gate lines as
boundaries. A plurality of word lines WL between the intermediate
select gate lines SGM and the source side select gate lines SGS are
included in a first group. A plurality of word lines WL between the
intermediate select gate lines SGM and the drain side select gate
lines SGD are included in a second group.
[0121] FIG. 6 is a top view schematically illustrating a structure
example of the memory cell array in the flash memory of the present
embodiment. FIG. 6 illustrates layouts of the respective wirings in
the extraction region 199. FIG. 6 illustrates two areas FNG0 and
FNG1 in the block BK. In FIG. 6, wirings (dashed lines in the
figure) CG, SGDI, SGSI and SGMI for applying voltages to a selected
block are illustrated, wirings for applying voltages to a
non-selected block are not illustrated.
[0122] As illustrated in FIG. 6, plugs CPS (CPS0 and CPS1) are
provided on the contact region of the source side select gate lines
SGS. The source side select gate lines SGS of the areas FNG0 and
FNG1 are connected to different wirings SGSI as described
above.
[0123] A plug CPW is provided on the contact region of each of the
word lines WL.
[0124] The contact regions of the even-numbered word lines WL and
the contact regions of the odd-numbered word lines WL are arranged
in the D1 direction above the source side select gate lines SGS.
However, positions (heights from the surface of the substrate 700)
of the contact regions of the even-numbered word lines WL in the D3
direction are different from positions of the contact regions of
the odd-numbered word lines in the D3 direction.
[0125] As mentioned above, with respect to two stacked wirings, two
contact regions are adjacent to each other in the D1 direction
intersecting the D2 direction, and thus a size of the extraction
region in the D2 direction is reduced.
[0126] Regarding the respective word lines WL, even if the word
lines are included in different areas FNG, the word lines (word
lines having the same wiring level) WL having the same address
number are connected to the common wiring CG.
[0127] Plugs CPM (CPM0 and CPM1) are provided in the contact
regions of the intermediate select gate lines SGM. In the areas
FNG0 and FNG1, the intermediate select gate lines SGM are connected
to different wirings SGMI via the plugs CPM.
[0128] Also regarding the word lines WL(i) to WL(m-1) above the
intermediate select gate lines SGM, plugs CPW are provided on the
contact regions of the word lines WL in the same layouts as those
of the word lines WL below the intermediate select gate lines
SGM.
[0129] The drain side select gate lines SGD are provided above the
intermediate select gate lines SGM and the word lines WL.
[0130] The drain side select gate lines SGD are separated for each
of the string units SU. If a single block BK includes four string
units SU, two drain side select gate lines SGM are provided in each
area FNG. Plugs CPD are provided on the contact regions of the
respective drain side select gate lines SGD. The drain side select
gate lines SGM0 to SGM3 are respectively connected to different
wirings SGMI0 SGMI3 via the plugs CPD.
[0131] For example, dummy wirings (dummy word lines) may be
provided in the memory cell array. The dummy word lines are
adjacent to the select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM in the D3
direction. Contact regions of the dummy word lines have the same
layout as the layout of the contact regions of the word lines WL.
The respective dummy word lines are connected to the common wiring
CG in a plurality of areas FNG and a plurality of string units SU
in the same manner as in the connection relationship between the
word lines WL and the wiring CG. However, in dummy word lines
adjacent to the intermediate select gate lines SGM, potentials of
the dummy word lines may be controlled in the same manner as in
control of potentials of the intermediate select gate lines SGM. In
this case, the dummy word lines are connected to wirings in a
relationship similar to the connection relationship between the
intermediate select gate lines SGM and the wirings SGMI.
[0132] Bit line contacts BC are provided on the semiconductor
pillars 75. The bit line contacts BC are connected to bit lines
BL.
[0133] Two NAND strings 111 adjacent to each other in the D1
direction are connected to different bit lines BL. In this case,
two bit line contacts BC adjacent to each other are not arranged on
the same straight line which is parallel to the D1 direction in a
D1-D2 plane. In a plurality of NAND strings 111 arranged in the D1
direction, positions of the bit line contacts BC are alternately
deviated in the D2 direction. A plurality of NAND strings 111
arranged in an inclined direction are connected to different bit
lines BL.
[0134] FIG. 7 is a schematic sectional view for explaining the
entire configuration of the block in the memory cell array of the
flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0135] As illustrated in FIG. 7, in the memory cell array 11, the
block BK is provided on a p-type well region 702 inside the
semiconductor substrate (for example, a Si substrate or a
semiconductor layer on an insulating layer) 700.
[0136] For example, the NAND string 111 in the block BK is provided
in a region surrounded by well contacts CPW. The well contacts CPW
are provided on p.sup.+-type diffusion layers 703 in the p-type
well region 702. A source line contact CELSRC is provided on an
n.sup.+-type diffusion layer 704 in the p-type well region 702
between the two areas FNG. The source line contact CELSRC is
connected to the source line SL. Each of the contact CPW and CELSRC
has a structure in which two plugs are stacked in the D3
direction.
[0137] In the flash memory 1 of the present embodiment, the block
BK includes a plurality of array layers (memory stages) 110A and
110B. In FIG. 7, in each area FNG, two array layers 110A and 110B
are stacked in the D3 direction. The array layer 110A (hereinafter,
referred to as a lower array layer) on the lower side includes a
plurality of semiconductor pillars (hereinafter, referred to as
lower semiconductor pillars) 75A. The array layer 110B
(hereinafter, referred to as an upper array layer) on the upper
side includes a plurality of semiconductor pillars (hereinafter,
referred to as upper semiconductor pillars) 75B. The semiconductor
pillars 75A and 75B extend substantially in a vertical direction
(D3 direction) with respect to the surface of the p-type well
region 702 (substrate) The semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B are
arranged in an array form in the respective array layers 110A and
110B along the D1 direction and the D2 direction.
[0138] Each of the NAND strings 111 is provided on the p-type well
region 702 so as to encompass the two array layers 110A and 110B.
The NAND string 111 includes two semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B.
The lower semiconductor pillar 75A is provided on the upper
semiconductor pillar 75B. A lower end of the semiconductor pillar
75A is connected to the p-type well region 702. An upper end of the
semiconductor pillar 75A is connected to a lower end of the
semiconductor pillar 75B. The bit line BL are provided above the
upper ends of the semiconductor pillars 75B via the bit line
contacts BC.
[0139] A plurality of conductive layers 70, 71, 72 and 73 are
stacked on the p-type well region 702. The respective conductive
layers 70, 71, 72 and 73 oppose side surfaces of the semiconductor
pillars 75 via memory films (not illustrated).
[0140] A drain side select transistor STD is disposed in a region
including the upper semiconductor pillar 75B and one or more
conductive layers 71. For example, a plurality of (for example,
three) stacked conductive layers 71 serve as a gate electrode of
the select transistor STD. The plurality of stacked conductive
layers 71 function as the drain side select gate lines SGD.
[0141] In the area FNG, the conductive layers 71 are provided in
each of the string units SU. Consequently, potentials of the drain
side select gate lines SGD are separately controlled in the two
string units SU in the area FNG.
[0142] A source side select transistor STS is disposed in a region
including the lower semiconductor pillar 75A and one or more
conductive layers 72. The conductive layers 72 serve as a gate
electrode of the source side select transistor STS. The conductive
layers 72 function as the source side select gate lines SGS.
[0143] For example, in a single area FNG, the conductive layer 72
as the source side select gate line SGS is used in common to two
string units SU. Consequently, a potential of the source side
select gate line SGS is controlled in common in two string units SU
in the area FNG.
[0144] The memory cells MC are disposed in a region including the
semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B and the conductive layers 70. The
conductive layers 70 serve as control gate electrodes of the memory
cells MC. A single conductive layer 70 functions as a single word
line WL. In the area FNG, the conductive layers 70 as the word
lines WL are used in common to two string units SU. The conductive
layers 70 may be used in common to four string units SU in the two
areas FNG.
[0145] The intermediate select gate line SGM and the intermediate
select transistor ST3 are provided in a region near a boundary
(hereinafter, a boundary region) 799 between the two array layers
110A and 110B. For example, the boundary region 799 includes at
least a first conductive layer of the lower array layer 110A and a
first conductive layer of the upper array layer 110B when counted
from a junction between the two semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B.
In the example illustrated in FIG. 7, the boundary region 799
includes three conductive layers of the lower array layer 110A and
three conductive layers of the upper array layer 110B centering on
the junction between the two semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B.
[0146] In the example illustrated in FIG. 7, a plurality of
intermediate select gate lines SGM are provided in the string unit
SU. The conductive layer 73 of the upper array layer 110B and the
conductive layer 73 of the lower array layer 110A are provided as
the intermediate select gate lines SGM. In each area FNG, the
conductive layers 73 are used in common to two string units SU.
[0147] The intermediate select transistor ST3 is disposed in a
region including the semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B, and the
conductive layers 73. The conductive layers 73 function as the
intermediate select gate lines SGM, and also function as a gate
electrode of the intermediate select transistor ST3.
[0148] FIG. 8 is a schematic sectional view for explaining a
structure example of the NAND string. FIG. 8 illustrates an
extracted single NAND string.
[0149] As illustrated in FIG. 8, in the NAND string 111, the memory
cells MC include memory films 79 (79A and 79B) between the
semiconductor pillars 75 and the conductive layers (word lines) 70.
The memory films 79 cover the side surfaces of the semiconductor
pillars 75.
[0150] The memory film 79A is continued on the side surface of the
semiconductor pillar 75A from the upper end of the semiconductor
pillar 75A to the lower end thereof. The memory film 79B is
continued on the side surface of the semiconductor pillar 75B from
the upper end of the semiconductor pillar 75B to the lower end
thereof. The memory film 79A is separated from the memory film
79B.
[0151] The memory films 79 have a stacked structure. Each of the
memory films 79 includes a gate insulating film 791, a charge
storage layer 792, and a block insulating film 793.
[0152] The gate insulating film (tunnel insulating film) 791 is
provided on the side surface of the semiconductor pillar 75. The
charge storage layer 792 is provided between the gate insulating
film 791 and the block insulating film 793. The charge storage
layer 792 includes an insulating film (for example, a SiN film)
having a trap level. The charge storage layer 792 may include a
semiconductor film (for example, a silicon film). If the charge
storage layer 792 includes the semiconductor film, the
semiconductor film is separately formed for each memory cell MC.
The block insulating film 793 is provided between the charge
storage layer 792 and the conductive layer 70.
[0153] The memory film 79 is also provided between the gate
electrodes (the conductive layers 71, 72 and 73) of the select
transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3, and the semiconductor pillar 75.
[0154] The semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B serve as channel
regions of the memory cells MC. The semiconductor pillars 75A and
75B contain amorphous silicon or polysilicon. For example, the
semiconductor pillar 75 may include a columnar insulator (for
example, silicon oxide) and a semiconductor region 751 covering a
side surface of the columnar insulator.
[0155] For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, the semiconductor
pillars 75A and 75B may have a tapered sectional shape upon
manufacturing of the memory cell array. In this case, a dimension
(diameter) of the lower part of the semiconductor pillar 75 in the
D2 direction (and the D1 direction) is smaller than a dimension of
the upper part of the semiconductor pillar 75 in the D2
direction.
[0156] As in the example illustrated in FIG. 8, the conductive
layer (at least one of the lowermost conductive layer of the upper
array layer and the uppermost conductive layer of the lower array
layer) adjacent to the junction 999 may be used as a dummy word
line DWL. In this case, a conductive layer directly on the dummy
word line DWL or a conductive layer directly under the dummy word
line DWL is used as the intermediate select gate line SGM.
[0157] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a relationship between
threshold voltage of the memory cell and data which can be stored.
As illustrated in FIG. 9, if the memory cell MC stores data of 2
bits ("11", "10", "01", and "00"), a threshold voltage of a
plurality of memory cells MC in the memory cell array (a block or a
page) may have four threshold voltage value distributions (states
or levels) TD-Er, TD-A, TD-B, and TD-C so as to correspond to 2-bit
(four-valued) data.
[0158] The Er level corresponds to an erasing state. The A level,
the B level, and the C level correspond to a data storing state
(holding state). When data is stored, a threshold voltage of the
memory cell MC is included in any one of threshold voltage value
distributions TD-A, TD-B and TD-C of the A level, the B level, and
the C level. Consequently, the memory cell MC stores 2-bit
data.
[0159] Determination levels (determination voltages) VA, VB, and VC
for reading data are set among the threshold voltage value
distributions. Consequently, when data is read from the memory cell
MC, data held in the memory cell MC is determined. For example, if
the memory cell stores 2-bit data, the levels VA, VB, and VC are
used as determination levels (hereinafter, also referred to as
reading levels) for reading data.
[0160] A reading pass voltage VREAD has a voltage value higher than
an upper limit voltage value of the highest threshold voltage value
distribution (here, the C level) among the plurality of threshold
voltage value distributions which can be taken by the memory cell
MC. The memory cell MC to which the reading pass voltage VREAD is
applied is turned on regardless of stored data.
[0161] Determination levels (hereinafter, also referred to as
verification levels) for verifying writing of data are set around
lower limit voltage values of the respective threshold voltage
value distributions. Consequently, when data is written into the
memory cell MC, whether or not the memory cell MC reaches a
threshold voltage value distribution corresponding to data to be
written is determined. Levels VAV, VBV and VCV are respectively set
in the threshold voltage value distributions TD-A, TD-B and TD-C as
the verification levels. Other levels for determining states of
threshold voltages of the memory cell may be provided between the
reading levels and the verification levels as the verification
levels.
[0162] During a read operation of the flash memory 1, a reading
voltage having at least one of the plurality of reading levels is
applied to the memory cell. During an operation of verifying a
write operation of the flash memory 1, a verification voltage
having at least one of the plurality of verification levels is
applied to the memory cell. Consequently, determines whether or not
the memory cell MC is turned on is detected in the read operation
and the verification operation. As a result, a state of data stored
in the memory cell or a threshold voltage of the memory cell during
writing of data is determined.
[0163] Data stored in the memory cell MC is not limited to 2-bit
data, and a single memory cell MC may store 1-bit data. A single
memory cell MC may store data of 3 or more bits.
[0164] In the present embodiment, the structure, operation, and
manufacturing method of the memory cell array having the
three-dimensional structure are as disclosed in, for example, U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 12/407,403, filed on Mar. 19, 2009,
entitled "three-dimensional stacked nonvolatile semiconductor
memory," U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/406,524, filed on Mar.
18, 2009, entitled "three-dimensional stacked nonvolatile
semiconductor memory," U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/679,991,
filed on Mar. 25, 2010, entitled "nonvolatile semiconductor memory
device and manufacturing method thereof," and U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/532,030, filed on Mar. 23, 2009, entitled
"semiconductor memory and manufacturing method thereof." All of
these patent applications are incorporated by reference herein.
[0165] FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams for explaining the flash
memory of the present embodiment. FIGS. 10A and 10B are diagrams
schematically illustrating an operation of the flash memory of the
present embodiment. In FIGS. 10A and 10B, for clarity in
illustration, the bit lines and the source lines are not
illustrated. In the following description, a reference sign of a
drain side select gate line (selected drain side select gate line)
of a selected string unit including selected cells based on
selection addresses uses "SGD-S", and a reference sign of a source
side select gate line (selected source side select gate line) of a
selected string unit including selected cells based on selection
addresses uses "SGS-S". A reference sign of a drain side select
gate line (non-selected drain side select gate line) of a
non-selected string unit including selected cells based on
selection addresses uses "SGD-US", and a reference sign of a source
side select gate line (non-selected source side select gate line)
of a non-selected string unit including selected cells based on
selection addresses uses "SGS-US".
[0166] Regarding the intermediate select gate line SGM, a reference
sign of a selected intermediate select gate line uses "SGM-S", and
a reference sign of a non-selected intermediate select gate line
uses "SGM-US".
[0167] A reference sign of a selected word line uses "WL-S", and a
reference sign of a non-selected word line uses "WL-US".
[0168] As described above, the flash memory of the present
embodiment includes the intermediate select gate lines SGM and the
intermediate select transistors ST3 in the NAND string 111.
Consequently, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
electrically separate at least a part of one of the lower array
layer 110A and the upper array layer 110B from the bit line BL and
the source line SL (CELSRC) according to an operation of the
memory.
[0169] During a read operation (or a verification operation) of the
flash memory, electric charge (hereinafter, referred to as residual
electric charge) remaining in the semiconductor pillar may be
injected into the charge storage layer due to a voltage being
applied to the word line. Thus, there is a probability that reading
disturbance may occur in the memory cell.
[0170] In order to reduce reading disturbance, a process
(hereinafter, referred to as a release process) of releasing the
residual electric charge in the semiconductor pillar may be
performed as an initial operation of the read operation.
[0171] In the release process, the semiconductor pillar is
electrically connected to at least one of the bit line and the
source line. Consequently, the residual electric charge is released
from the semiconductor pillar to the bit line or from the
semiconductor pillar to the source line.
[0172] If the semiconductor pillar is electrically connected to the
bit line or the source line during the release process, a
capacitance component (parasitic capacitance) is generated in a
NAND string of a non-selected string unit due to a potential
difference between the word line and the semiconductor pillar when
a threshold voltage of the memory cell is determined after the
release process. The capacitance component acts as a load during a
read operation. Thus, this load may cause an increase in a current
(power consumption), the occurrence of noise, deterioration in an
operation speed, and the like during a read operation (or a
verification operation) of the flash memory.
[0173] If a block includes a plurality of array layers in order to
increase a memory capacity, the number of memory cells, the number
of word lines, and the number of wirings used in common to a
plurality of elements in a block are increased, and thus the
influence of a load due to a capacitance component further
increases.
[0174] The flash memory of the present embodiment electrically
separates an upper array layer and a lower array layer in a
non-selected string unit from each other by controlling a potential
of the intermediate select gate line SGM during a read operation
(or a verification operation). Consequently, the flash memory of
the present embodiment performs a release process on residual
electric charge in the semiconductor pillar in a memory stage
including a selected word line in a non-selected string unit.
[0175] Along with the electric charge release process, in the flash
memory of the present embodiment, in the non-selected string unit
SU, an array layer not including the selected word line is
electrically separated from the bit line and the source line by
turning off the select transistor ST3. As a result, the flash
memory of the present embodiment can perform channel-boosting on
the semiconductor pillar in an array layer not including a selected
word line in a non-selected string unit.
[0176] FIG. 10A is a diagram schematically illustrating a
conduction state between respective members in a block if there is
a selected word line in the upper array layer 110B. FIG. 10A
illustrates a relationship between potentials during a release
process before data is read.
[0177] In FIG. 10A, the drain side select gate line SGD0
corresponds to a selected drain side select gate line SGD-S based
on a selection address, and the source side select gate line SGS0
corresponds to a selected source side select gate line SGS-S based
on a selection address.
[0178] In FIG. 10A, a voltage having an "H" level (transistor
turning-on voltage) is applied to the respective select gate lines
SGD-S, SGS-S and SGM-S of the selected string unit SU0.
Consequently, in the selected string unit, the semiconductor
pillars of each NAND string are electrically connected to the bit
line and the source line.
[0179] When a threshold voltage of the memory cell is determined
after a release process during a read operation or a verification
operation, a non-selected string unit is a string unit in which at
least a drain side select gate line is disabled among a plurality
of select gate lines in a string unit. In the non-selected string
unit, a turning-off voltage of the select transistor ST1 is applied
to the drain side select gate line SGD during a determination of a
threshold voltage of the memory cell. Consequently, the
non-selected string unit is electrically separated from the bit
line BL.
[0180] In the case of FIG. 10A, a voltage having an "H" level is
applied to the drain side select gate lines SGD-US in the
non-selected string units SU1, SU2 and SU3.
[0181] If a voltage having an "L" level (transistor turning-off
voltage) is applied to the intermediate select gate lines SGM-US of
the non-selected string units, the lower semiconductor pillar 75A
of the lower array layer 110A is electrically separated from the
bit line BL, the source line SL (CELSRC), and the upper
semiconductor pillar 75B of the upper array layer 110B.
[0182] However, as illustrated in FIG. 10A, if a select gate line
is shared by the string units SU0 and SU1 adjacent to each other as
in the source side select gate line SGS and the intermediate select
gate line SGM, potentials of the shared select gate lines SGS and
SGM are the same as each other in the non-selected string unit SU1
and the selected string unit SU0. Therefore, in the non-selected
string unit SU1, the select transistors ST2 and ST3 are turned on,
and thus the lower semiconductor pillar 75A is electrically
connected to the upper semiconductor pillar 75B and the source line
SL (CELSRC).
[0183] In this case, an electric charge release process is
performed on the semiconductor pillar 75B in the upper array layer
110B including the selected word line WL-S in the non-selected
string unit along with the semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B of the
selected string unit. As a result, the flash memory of the present
embodiment can reduce reading disturbance caused by hot
electrons.
[0184] During a determination of a threshold voltage of the memory
cell, the reading pass voltage VREAD is applied to the word line
WL, and thus the semiconductor pillar 75A in a portion 99A of the
lower array layer 110A is subject to channel boosting.
Consequently, a capacitance component between the word line WL and
the semiconductor pillar 75A is not generated in the lower array
layer 110A of the non-selected string unit. As a result, the flash
memory 1 of the present embodiment can reduce a load caused by a
capacitance component.
[0185] FIG. 10B is a diagram schematically illustrating a
conduction state between respective members in a block if there is
a selected word line in the lower array layer 110A. FIG. 10B
illustrates a relationship between potentials during a release
process before data is read.
[0186] In FIG. 10B, in the same manner as in the example
illustrated in FIG. 10A, the drain side select gate line SGD0 and
the source side select gate line SGS0 respectively correspond to
selected select gate lines SGD-S and SGS-S.
[0187] In FIG. 10B, a voltage having an "H" level is applied to the
respective select gate lines SGD-S, SGS-S and SGM-S of the selected
string unit. In a non-selected string unit, a voltage having an "H"
level is applied to the non-selected source side select gate line
SGS-US, and a voltage having an "L" level is applied to the
non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US. A voltage having
an "L" level is applied to the intermediate select gate line SGM of
the non-selected string unit. Consequently, in the non-selected
string unit, the intermediate select transistors ST3 are turned
off, and thus the upper semiconductor pillar 75B is electrically
separated from the bit line BL, the lower semiconductor pillar 75A,
and the source line SL.
[0188] As illustrated in FIG. 10B, in the non-selected string unit
SU1 which shares the select gate lines SGS and SGM with the
selected string unit SU0, the select transistors ST2 and ST3 of the
non-selected string unit SU1 are turned on, and thus the
semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B are connected to the source line
SL (CELSRC).
[0189] In this case, an electric charge release process is
performed on the lower semiconductor pillar 75A in the lower array
layer 110A including the selected word line in the non-selected
string unit along with the semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B of the
selected string unit. As a result, the flash memory of the present
embodiment can reduce reading disturbance caused by hot
electrons.
[0190] During a determination of a threshold voltage of the memory
cell, the reading pass voltage VREAD is applied to the word line
WL, and thus the semiconductor pillar 75B in a portion 99B of the
upper array layer 110B is subject to channel boosting. As a result,
the flash memory 1 of the present embodiment can reduce a
capacitance component between the word line WL and the
semiconductor pillar 75B in the non-selected string unit, and can
thus reduce a load during a read operation.
[0191] As mentioned above, the flash memory of the present
embodiment can reduce reading disturbance while reducing the
influence of a parasitic capacitance.
[0192] Therefore, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
improve operation characteristics.
(1b) Operation Examples
[0193] With reference to FIGS. 11 to 16, a description will be made
of an operation example (control method) of a memory device
according to a first embodiment. Here, an operation of the memory
device of the present embodiment will be described with reference
to FIGS. 1 to 10B as appropriate in addition to FIGS. 11 to 16.
(1b-1) Basic Example
[0194] With reference to FIG. 11, a description will be made for a
basic example of an operation of the memory device (for example, a
flash memory) of the present embodiment.
[0195] In the memory system including the flash memory of the
present embodiment, the memory controller 5 transmits commands and
addresses (selection addresses) of operation targets to the flash
memory 1 (step S0).
[0196] The flash memory 1 receives the commands and the selection
addresses. Consequently, the flash memory 1 starts an operation
based on the commands (step S1). The operation performed by the
flash memory includes a determination of a threshold voltage of the
memory cell. For example, the determination of a threshold voltage
of the memory cell is included in a read operation, or a
verification operation in a write operation.
[0197] The flash memory 1 selects and enables a block, a string
unit, and a page including operation target memory cells.
[0198] The flash memory 1 starts control on select gate lines in
the selected block (step S2). Consequently, the drain side select
gate line SGD, the source side select gate line SGS, and the
intermediate select gate lines SGM in the selected string unit SU
are enabled. For example, in the selected string unit, a voltage
VSG for turning on the select transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3 are
applied to the selected select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM.
[0199] In the present embodiment, the flash memory 1 disables the
intermediate select gate lines SGM with respect to non-selected
string units. The flash memory 1 of the present embodiment enables
select gate lines in the array layers 110A and 110B including
selected word lines WL of the drain side and source side select
gate lines SGD and SGS, and disables select gate lines SGD and SGS
in the array layers 110A and 110B not including the selected word
lines WL.
[0200] As illustrated in FIG. 10A, if the word lines WL in the
upper array layer 110B are selected as operation target addresses,
the non-selected drain side select gate line SGD is enabled, and
the non-selected source side select gate line SGS is disabled. The
non-selected intermediate select gate line SGM is disabled. For
example, the voltage VSG is applied to the non-selected drain side
select gate line SGD, and a voltage (for example, a ground voltage)
VSS for turning off the select transistor ST2 is applied to the
non-selected source side select gate line SGS.
[0201] As illustrated in FIG. 10B, if the word lines WL in the
lower array layer 110A are selected as operation target addresses,
the non-selected drain side select gate line SGD is disabled, and
the non-selected source side select gate line SGS is enabled. The
non-selected intermediate select gate line SGM is disabled. For
example, the ground voltage VSS for turning off the select
transistor ST1 is applied to the non-selected drain side select
gate line SGD, and the voltage VSG is applied to the non-selected
source side select gate line SGS.
[0202] The flash memory 1 controls enabling and disabling of the
intermediate select gate lines SGM of each string unit SU and then
applies voltages for operating the memory cells to the word lines
(step S3).
[0203] Consequently, in either one of the lower array layer 110A
and the upper array layer 110B in the non-selected string unit,
residual electric charge in the semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B
is released to the bit line BL or the source line SL via the
turned-on memory cell MC and the select transistors. The release
process is not performed on the semiconductor pillar which is
electrically separated from the bit line BL and the source line SL
by turning off the select transistor.
[0204] The flash memory 1 determines a threshold voltage of the
memory cell connected to the selected word line after performing
the electric charge release process (step S4). If a determination
of the threshold voltage of the memory cell MC is performed for a
read operation, a reading voltage is applied to the selected word
line WL.
[0205] If a determination of the threshold voltage of the memory
cell MC is performed for a verification operation in a write
operation, a verification voltage is applied to the selected word
line. During the read operation or the verification operation, the
reading pass voltage VREAD is applied to word lines (non-selected
word lines) other than the selected word line.
[0206] Data (a state of a threshold voltage of the memory cell)
held in the memory cell is determined based on a turned-on or
turned-off result of the memory cell when the reading voltage (or
the verification voltage) is applied.
[0207] In the present embodiment, in the lower and upper array
layers 110A and 110B of the non-selected string unit, the
semiconductor pillar in a portion which is electrically separated
from other members by the disabled select gate lines SGD, SGS and
SGM is in an electrically floating state. Therefore, as in the
portion 99A in FIG. 10A or the portion 99B in FIG. 10B, the
semiconductor pillar 75 in the electrically separated array layer
110 is subject to channel boosting due to the reading pass voltage
VREAD being applied to the non-selected word line, and thus a
potential of the semiconductor pillar 75 increases. Consequently, a
capacitance component in the portion 99 is reduced.
[0208] As a result, a load caused by a capacitance component of a
non-selected string unit in a selected block is reduced during an
operation of the flash memory.
[0209] If an operation including the above-described determination
of a threshold voltage of the memory cell is performed one or more
times, and then the flash memory 1 detects finishing of an
operation based on a command, the flash memory 1 notifies the
memory controller 5 of finishing of the operation (step S5). If the
operation based on a command is a read operation, the flash memory
1 transmits data to the memory controller 5.
[0210] The memory controller 5 is notified of the finishing of the
operation by the flash memory 1, and thus detects the finishing of
the operation of the flash memory (step S6). If data is transmitted
from the flash memory 1 to the memory controller 5, the memory
controller 5 receives the data, and transmits the received data to
the host device.
[0211] Through the above-described operation, the read operation of
the flash memory of the present embodiment is completed.
[0212] As described above, during an operation of the flash memory,
a load caused by a capacitance component between the word line and
the semiconductor pillar is reduced.
[0213] As a result, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
improve operation characteristics.
(b-2) Specific Example
[0214] With reference to FIGS. 12 to 16, a specific example of an
operation of the flash memory of the present embodiment will be
explained.
[0215] (b-2-1) Read Operation
[0216] With reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, a read operation of the
flash memory of the present embodiment will be explained.
[0217] FIGS. 12 and 13 are diagrams illustrating voltage waveforms
of the respective wirings during a read operation of the flash
memory of the present embodiment.
[0218] In the present embodiment, a current sensing method is used
as a method of controlling the bit line during the read operation
(a process of determining a threshold voltage of the memory cell).
In the current sensing method, a state of a threshold voltage of
the memory cell is determined by sensing the generation of a bit
line current (cell current) according to turning-on or turning-off
of the memory cell.
[0219] In the present embodiment, a spike operation is employed as
a method of controlling the word line during the read operation. In
the spike operation, a voltage higher than a reading voltage is
applied to a word line (selected word line) indicated by an address
and other word lines (non-selected word line), and then a potential
of the selected word line is read to be set as a voltage. The spike
operation can allow electric charge in the semiconductor pillar to
be efficiently released.
[0220] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Upper Array Layer
[0221] With reference to FIG. 12, a data read operation on the
memory cell of the upper array layer will be explained.
[0222] Time Point t0
[0223] For example, at a time point t0, the memory controller 5
transmits a reading command CMD and a selection address ADR of a
data reading target to the flash memory 1 in response to a request
from the host device 600.
[0224] The flash memory 1 receives the reading command CMD and the
selection address ADR. The sequencer 19 starts a read operation
based on the reading command CMD.
[0225] The sequencer 19 controls each circuit of the flash memory 1
so that the read operation is performed as follows.
[0226] At the time point t0, the sequencer 19 causes a signal level
of the ready/busy signal R/B to transition from an "H" level to an
"L" level. Consequently, the memory controller 5 is notified of
starting of the read operation of the flash memory 1.
[0227] The voltage generation circuit 18 generates various voltages
used for the read operation under the control of the sequencer
19.
[0228] Time Point t1a
[0229] At a time point t1a, the source line driver 15 applies the
ground voltage VSS to the source line SL (CELSRC).
[0230] The row control circuit 12 applies the voltage VSG to a
selected drain side select gate line SGD-S and a selected source
side select gate line SGS-S with respect to a selected string unit
SU in a selected block BK. Consequently, the select transistors ST1
and ST2 are turned on.
[0231] The bit line BL is electrically connected to the
semiconductor pillar 75 via the turned-on select transistor ST1.
The source line SL (CELSRC) is electrically connected to the
semiconductor pillar 75 via the turned-on select transistor ST2 and
the well region 702.
[0232] The row control circuit 12 applies the voltage VSG to
non-selected drain side select gate lines SGD-US in non-selected
string units SU in the selected block BK. The row control circuit
12 applies the ground voltage VSS to non-selected source side
select gate lines SGS-US.
[0233] Consequently, in the non-selected string units, the select
transistors ST1 are turned on, and the select transistors ST2 are
turned off.
[0234] In the present embodiment, in the selected string unit (for
example, the string unit SU0) of the selected block BK, the row
control circuit 12 applies the voltage VSG from the driver 129 to
the selected intermediate select gate lines SGM-S. Consequently,
the intermediate select transistors ST3 are turned on in the
selected string unit SU.
[0235] In the non-selected string units of the selected block BK,
the row control circuit 12 applies the ground voltage VSS to the
non-selected intermediate select gate lines SGM-US. Consequently,
in the non-selected string units, the intermediate select
transistors ST3 are turned off. As a result, in the non-selected
string unit, the semiconductor pillar 75A of the lower array layer
110A is electrically separated from the semiconductor pillar 75B of
the upper array layer 110B by turning off the intermediate select
transistors ST3.
[0236] If word lines adjacent to the intermediate select gate lines
SGM are used as dummy word lines in the respective string units,
respective potentials of the dummy word lines are controlled to be
the same as potentials of the adjacent intermediate select gate
lines SGM-S and SGM-US.
[0237] A time lag occurs from starting of application of a certain
voltage to a wiring until a potential of the wiring reaches the
voltage due to wiring delay.
[0238] Time Point t2a
[0239] At a time point t2a, the row control circuit 12 starts to
apply the reading pass voltage VREAD to the non-selected word lines
WL-US. The row control circuit 12 also starts to apply the reading
pass voltage VREAD to the selected word lines WL-S along with the
application of the reading pass voltage VREAD to the non-selected
word lines WL-US. Potentials of the non-selected word lines WL-US
and the selected word lines WL-S increase.
[0240] Consequently, during control of potentials of the
non-selected word lines WL-US, channels can be formed in memory
cells (non-selected cells) connected to the non-selected word lines
WL-US, and channels can also be formed in memory cells (selected
cells) connected to the selected word lines WL-S.
[0241] Electric charge in the semiconductor pillars 75 is released
to the bit line BL or the source line SL via the formed
channels.
[0242] As a result, local electric field concentration around a
selected cell can be prevented, and thus the occurrence of
erroneous writing on the selected cell and a non-selected cell
adjacent to the selected cell can be reduced.
[0243] As mentioned above, in the present embodiment, the spike
operation on the word lines WL is performed.
[0244] Time Point t3a
[0245] At a time point t3a, in the sense amplifier circuit 13, the
sense amplifier units 131 start to charge the respective bit lines
BL under the control of the sequencer 19.
[0246] A potential of the selected word line WL-S increases to a
reading voltage VCGRV or higher. The row control circuit 12 reduces
the potential of the selected word line WL-S to converge on the
reading voltage VCGRV. The reading pass voltage VREAD is
continuously applied to the non-selected word lines WL-US.
[0247] In the non-selected string units, the row control circuit 12
stops application of the voltage to the drain side select gate
lines SGD-US. Consequently, potentials of the non-selected drain
side select gate lines SGD-US are set to the ground voltage
VSS.
[0248] In the selected string unit, a potential of the drain side
select gate line SGD-S, a potential of the source side select gate
line SGS-S, and potentials of the intermediate select gate lines
SGM-S are maintained to be the voltage VSG.
[0249] In the non-selected string units, potentials of the
non-selected intermediate select gate lines SGM-US are maintained
to be the ground voltage VSS.
[0250] In a period TA from the time point t1a to the time point
t3a, the voltage VSG is applied to the non-selected drain side
select gate lines SGD-US, and thus the select transistors ST1
connected to the non-selected drain side select gate lines SGD-US
are turned on. In the period TA, the upper semiconductor pillars
75B of the non-selected string units are electrically connected to
the bit lines BL. Electric charge in the upper semiconductor
pillars 75B is released to the bit lines BL via the turned-on
select transistors ST1.
[0251] On the other hand, in the period TA, the ground voltage VSS
is applied to the non-selected intermediate select gate lines
SGM-US and the non-selected source side select gate lines SGS-US.
Thus, the select transistors ST3 connected to the non-selected
intermediate select gate lines SGM-US are turned off, and the
select transistors ST2 connected to the non-selected source side
select gate lines SGS-US are turned off.
[0252] Therefore, the lower semiconductor pillars 75A of the
non-selected string units are electrically separated from the bit
lines BL and the source line SL (CELSRC) and are thus in an
electrically floating state. As a result, the semiconductor pillars
75A in a floating state are subject to channel boosting due to
increases in potentials of the non-selected word lines WL-US.
[0253] Time Point t4a
[0254] After a charging waiting period (development period) TB for
the bit line BL elapses, at a time point t4a, a potential of the
bit line BL is substantially set to a voltage Vpre with a
predetermined magnitude. A potential of the selected word line WL-S
is set to the reading voltage VCGRV, and a potential of the
non-selected word line WL-US is set to the reading pass voltage
VREAD.
[0255] The non-selected cell to which the reading pass voltage
VREAD is applied is turned on.
[0256] Regarding the selected cell MC, the memory cell MC having a
threshold voltage which is equal to or lower than the reading
voltage VCGRV is turned on, and the memory cell MC having a
threshold voltage which is higher than the reading voltage VCGRV is
turned off.
[0257] If the selected cell MC is turned on due to the application
of the reading voltage VCGRV, a current (cell current) flows
between the bit line BL and the source line SL (CELSRC). A
potential of a node connected to the bit line BL in the sense
amplifier unit 131 changes due to the occurrence of the current. On
the other hand, if the selected cell is turned off when the reading
voltage VCGRV is applied, a current does not flow between the bit
line BL and the source line SL connected to the turned-off selected
cell. In this case, a potential of a node connected to the bit line
BL does not change.
[0258] The sense amplifier unit 131 senses the generation of a
current in the bit line. The sense amplifier unit 131 incorporates
a signal corresponding to a result of the sensing into a latch
circuit corresponding to each bit line.
[0259] In the above-described way, regarding 1-bit data, whether
data stored in the memory cell MC is data of "1" or data of "0" is
determined by using the reading voltage VCGRV as a reference
(determination level).
[0260] In a determination of a threshold voltage of the memory
cell, a potential difference between the word line WL-US and the
semiconductor pillar 75A in the portion 99A is reduced due to
channel boosting of the semiconductor pillar 75A. Thus, a
capacitance component of the portion 99A is removed from a
capacitance component in the selected block. As a result, a load
caused by the semiconductor pillar in the non-selected string unit
is reduced.
[0261] In FIG. 12, a value of the reading voltage VCGRV is set to a
constant value in order to read 1-bit data. However, if a single
memory cell stores data of 2 or more bits, the reading voltage
VCGRV may have a plurality of values in order to continuously read
data in the memory cell MC by 1 bit.
[0262] Time Point t5a and Time Point t6a
[0263] After the generation of a current in the bit line BL is
sensed, each wiring is disabled at a time point t5a and a time
point t6a.
[0264] At the time point t5a, the sense amplifier unit 131 sets a
potential of the bit line BL to the ground voltage VSS.
[0265] At the time point t6a, potentials of the select gate lines
SGD, SGM and SGS, and potentials of the word lines WL-S and WL-US
are sequentially set to the ground voltage VSS.
[0266] As mentioned above, in a period from the time point t5a to
the time point t6a, the respective wirings SGD, SGS, SGM, WL, and
BL in the selected block BK are disabled. Consequently, reading of
data from the memory cell MC is finished.
[0267] The sequencer 19 changes a level of the ready/busy signal
R/B to an "H" level. Consequently, the memory controller 5 is
notified of finishing of the read operation in the flash memory
1.
[0268] The data read from the memory cell is transmitted from the
flash memory 1 to the memory controller 5.
[0269] As mentioned above, the read operation on the memory cells
in the upper array layer of the flash memory 1 of the present
embodiment is finished.
[0270] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Lower Array Layer
[0271] With reference to FIG. 13, a data read operation on the
memory cell of the lower array layer will be explained. Reading of
data from the memory cell of the lower array layer 110A is
different from reading of data from the memory cell of the upper
array layer 110B in terms of control on select gate lines of a
non-selected string unit in addition to control on a selected word
line WL-S.
[0272] Time Point t1b
[0273] At a time point t1b after a command and a selection address
are received (time point t0), the source line driver 15 applies the
ground voltage VSS to the source line SL (CELSRC).
[0274] The row control circuit 12 applies the voltage VSG to
selected select gate lines SGD-S and SGS-S with respect to a
selected string unit SU in a selected block BK. In the present
embodiment, in the selected string unit, the row control circuit 12
applies the voltage VSG from the driver 129 to the selected
intermediate select gate lines SGM-S. Consequently, in the selected
string unit, the intermediate select transistors ST3 are turned on,
and thus the lower semiconductor pillar 75A is electrically
connected to the upper semiconductor pillar 75B. In the selected
string unit, the semiconductor pillars 75 are electrically
connected to the bit line BL and the source line SL (CELSRC) by
turning on the intermediate select transistors ST1, ST2 and
ST3.
[0275] If the selected word line WL-S is a word line in the lower
array layer 110A, the row control circuit 12 applies the ground
voltage VSS to the non-selected drain side select gate lines SGD-US
and applies the voltage VSG to the non-selected source side select
gate lines SGS-US in the non-selected string units of the selected
block. Consequently, in the non-selected string units, the
transistors ST1 are turned off, and the transistors ST2 are turned
on. In the non-selected string units, the row control circuit 12
applies the ground voltage VSS to the non-selected intermediate
select gate lines SGM-US. Consequently, in the non-selected string
units, the intermediate select transistors ST3 are turned off.
[0276] As a result, in each of the non-selected string units, the
upper semiconductor pillar 75B is electrically separated from the
lower semiconductor pillar 75A by turning off the intermediate
select transistors ST3.
[0277] Time Point t2b
[0278] At a time point t2b, the row control circuit 12 starts to
apply the reading pass voltage VREAD to the word lines WL-S and
WL-US through a spike operation. Potentials of the non-selected
word lines WL-US and the selected word line WL-S increase.
[0279] In the period TA, electric charge in the semiconductor
pillars 75 is released to the bit line BL or the source line SL via
the turned-on transistors.
[0280] Time Point t3b
[0281] At a time point t3b, the row control circuit 12 reduces a
potential which is equal to or higher than the reading voltage
VCGRV to the reading voltage VCGRV in the selected word line WL-S.
The sense amplifier circuit 13 charges the bit line BL.
[0282] In the non-selected string units, the row control circuit 12
stops application of the voltage VSG to the non-selected source
side select gate lines SGS-US. Consequently, potentials of the
non-selected source side select gate lines SGS-US are set to the
ground voltage VSS, and thus the select transistors ST2 are turned
off.
[0283] In the selected string unit, a potential of the drain side
select gate line SGD-S, a potential of the source side select gate
line SGS-S, and potentials of the intermediate select gate lines
SGM-S are maintained to be the voltage VSG. In the non-selected
string units, potentials of the non-selected intermediate select
gate lines SGM-US are maintained to be the ground voltage VSS.
[0284] Time Point t4b
[0285] After the bit line BL is charged in the period TB, at a time
point t4b, a potential of the bit line BL is substantially set to a
voltage Vpre with a predetermined magnitude. A potential of the
selected word line WL-S is set to the reading voltage VCGRV, and a
potential of the non-selected word line WL-US is set to the reading
pass voltage VREAD.
[0286] As described above, the selected cell MC is turned on or off
due to application of the reading voltage VCGRV, and thus a cell
current flows through the bit line BL.
[0287] The sense amplifier unit 131 senses the occurrence (or a
change in a potential of the node) of a current in the bit line.
The sense amplifier unit 131 incorporates a signal corresponding to
a result of the sensing into a latch circuit corresponding to each
bit line.
[0288] When a threshold voltage of the memory cell in the lower
array layer 110A is determined, the upper semiconductor pillars 75B
of the non-selected string units SU are subject to channel
boosting.
[0289] Therefore, data held in the memory cell MC is determined in
a state in which a capacitance component (load) between the
semiconductor pillar and the word line in the upper array layer
110B in each of the non-selected string units.
[0290] Time Point t5b and Time Point t6b
[0291] At the time point t5b, the sense amplifier circuit 13 sets a
potential of the bit line BL to the ground voltage VSS.
[0292] At the time point t6b, potentials of the select gate lines
SGD, SGM and SGS, and potentials of the word lines WL-S and WL-US
are sequentially set to the ground voltage VSS.
[0293] As mentioned above, in a period from the time point t5b to
the time point t6b, the respective wirings SGD, SGS, SGM, WL, and
BL in the selected block BK are disabled, and thus reading of data
from the selected cell is finished.
[0294] The data read from the memory cell is transmitted from the
flash memory 1 to the memory controller 5.
[0295] As mentioned above, the read operation on the memory cells
in the lower array layer of the flash memory 1 of the present
embodiment is finished.
[0296] (b-2-2) Write Operation
[0297] With reference to FIG. 14, a write operation of the flash
memory of the present embodiment will be explained. FIG. 14 is a
diagram illustrating voltage waveforms of the respective wirings
during a write operation of the flash memory of the present
embodiment.
[0298] Time Point t20
[0299] As illustrated in FIG. 14, at a time point t20, for example,
the memory controller 5 transmits a writing command, an address
(selection address) to which data is to be written, and data to be
written, to the flash memory 1 in response to a request from the
host device 600. The flash memory 1 receives the writing command,
the selection address, and the data. The sequencer 19 starts a
write operation based on the writing command.
[0300] In the flash memory 1, the write operation includes one or
more writing loops. If one or more writing loops are executed, the
data is written into a memory cell included in the selection
address.
[0301] The writing loops include a program operation and a
verification operation. Through the program operation, a threshold
voltage of a memory cell is shifted in a positive direction.
Through the verification operation, whether or not a threshold
voltage of a memory cell reaches a value corresponding to data to
be written is determined.
[0302] The sequencer 19 controls the respective circuits of the
flash memory 1 so that the write operation is performed as
follows.
[0303] Time Point t21
[0304] During the program operation, at a time point t21, the sense
amplifier circuit 13 starts to control a potential of the bit line
BL.
[0305] In the sense amplifier circuit 13, the sense amplifier unit
131 applies the ground voltage VSS to the bit line BL connected to
a memory cell into which data is to be written. Consequently, the
memory cell MC is set to a programmable state (programmable).
[0306] In the sense amplifier circuit 13, the sense amplifier unit
131 applies a voltage V1 to the bit line BL connected to a memory
cell into which data is not written. Consequently, the memory cell
MC is set to a programming inhibition state (inhibit). A memory
cell set to the programming inhibition state is a memory cell which
is maintained at an "Er" level, or a memory cell whose threshold
voltage reaches a value corresponding to data to be written.
[0307] The row control circuit 12 starts to control potentials of
the respective select gate lines SGD-S, SGD-US, SGS-S, SGS-US,
SGM-S and SGM-US.
[0308] The row control circuit 12 applies a voltage VSGD to the
drain side select gate line SGD-S of a selected string unit. The
row control circuit 12 applies the voltage VSGD to the non-selected
drain side select gate line SGD-US of a non-selected string
unit.
[0309] The row control circuit 12 applies a voltage VSGM to the
intermediate select gate lines SGM-S of the selected string unit.
The row control circuit 12 applies the ground voltage VSS to the
non-selected intermediate select gate lines SGM-US of the
non-selected string unit.
[0310] The row control circuit 12 applies a voltage VSGS to the
source side select gate line SGS-S of the selected string unit, and
applies the ground voltage VSS to the non-selected source side
select gate line SGS-US of the non-selected string unit.
[0311] The source line driver 15 applies a voltage V2 to the source
line SL (CELSRC).
[0312] The voltages VSGD, VSGS and VSGM are voltages for turning on
the select transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3. Each of the voltages VSGD,
VSGS and VSGM is, for example, about 5 V to 6 V. The voltage V1 is,
for example, about 1.5 V to 2.5 V. The voltage V2 is, for example,
about 0.8 V to 1.2 V.
[0313] In the selected string unit, the select transistors ST1 and
ST3 are turned on, and thus the semiconductor pillars 75 are
electrically connected to the bit line, in the NAND string 111 of
the bit line BL to which the ground voltage VSS is applied. In the
NAND string 111 of the bit line BL to which the voltage V1 is
applied, the select transistor ST1 is turned off, and thus the bit
line BL is electrically separated from the semiconductor pillars
75.
[0314] In the non-selected string unit, the select transistor ST1
is turned on, and the select transistor ST3 is turned off. In the
non-selected string unit, the upper semiconductor pillar 75B is
connected to the bit line BL, and the lower semiconductor pillar
75A is electrically separated from the bit line BL.
[0315] With respect to the non-selected string unit sharing the
intermediate select gate lines SGM and the source side select gate
line SGS with the selected string unit, in the same manner as in
the read operation, potentials of the intermediate select gate
lines SGM and the source side select gate line SGS of the
non-selected string unit are the same as potentials of the
intermediate select gate lines SGM and the source side select gate
line SGS of the selected string unit.
[0316] Time Point t22
[0317] At a time point t22, the row control circuit 12 starts to
control a position of the word lines WL. The row control circuit 12
applies a writing pass voltage Vpass to the word lines WL.
[0318] The row control circuit 12 reduces a potential of the
non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US from the voltage
VSGD to the ground voltage VSS. Consequently, the select transistor
ST2 of the non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US is
turned off, and thus the semiconductor pillars 75 of the
non-selected string unit is electrically separated from the bit
line BL.
[0319] Time Point t23
[0320] At a time point t23, the row control circuit 12 increases a
potential of the selected word line WL-S from the writing pass
voltage Vpass to a program voltage VPGM. A potential of the
non-selected word line WL-US is maintained at the writing pass
voltage Vpass. A value of the program voltage VPGM changes with the
progress of the write operation. A predetermined voltage value
(step-up voltage) is sequentially added to an initial value of the
program voltage VPGM according to the number of times of execution
of the writing loops.
[0321] A threshold voltage of the memory cell of the bit line BL to
which the ground voltage VSS is applied is shifted in a positive
direction as a result of applying the program voltage VPGM.
Consequently, a threshold voltage of a programmable memory cell
increases.
[0322] The select transistor connected to the bit line BL to which
the voltage V1 is applied is cut off. Therefore, the memory cell
connected to the bit line BL to which the voltage V1 is applied is
subject to channel boosting. Consequently, a threshold voltage of
the memory cell in a programming inhibition state scarcely changes
during application of the program voltage VPGM.
[0323] Time Point t24 to Time Point t26
[0324] After a period secured for shifting a threshold voltage of
the memory cell (for injecting electric charge into the charge
storage layer) elapses, the sequencer 19 reduces a potential of
each wiring in order to complete the program operation.
[0325] At a time point t24, the row control circuit 12 reduces a
potential of the selected word line WL-S from the program voltage
Vpgm to the voltage Vpass. At a time point t25, the row control
circuit 12 reduces potentials of the selected word line WL-S and
the non-selected word line WL-US from the voltage Vpass to the
ground voltage VSS.
[0326] Thereafter, at a time point t26, the sense amplifier circuit
13 reduces a potential of the bit line BL to which the voltage V1
is applied, from the voltage V1 to the ground voltage VSS.
[0327] The row control circuit 12 sets potentials of the selected
select gate lines SGD-S, SGS-S and SGM-S to the ground voltage VSS.
The source line driver 15 reduces a potential of the source line SL
(CELSRC) from the voltage V2 to the ground voltage VSS.
[0328] Consequently, the program operation in a certain writing
loop is finished.
[0329] A verification operation is performed after the program
operation illustrated in FIG. 14. The verification operation is
similar to the read operation. The verification operation is
performed following the program operation without a command from
the controller 5. The verification operation is different from the
read operation in that a verification voltage having one or more
verification levels is applied to the selected word line WL-S
instead of a reading voltage. As mentioned above, in the
verification operation, a state of a threshold voltage of the
memory cell MC is determined. A verification level at which data
programming is completed may be omitted from the verification
voltage with the progress of the write operation.
[0330] If the selected word line WL-S is a word line WLU in the
upper array layer 110B in the verification operation, the
verification operation is performed in the substantially same
manner as in the read operation in FIG. 12. If the selected word
line WL-S is a word line WLL in the lower array layer 110A in the
verification operation, the verification operation is performed in
the substantially same manner as in the read operation in FIG.
13.
[0331] A writing loop including the program operation illustrated
in FIG. 14 and the verification operation illustrated in FIG. 11 or
12 is repeatedly executed until a threshold voltage of a selected
cell reaches a voltage value corresponding to data to be
written.
[0332] As mentioned above, the write operation of the flash memory
of the present embodiment is performed.
[0333] (b-2-3) Erasing Operation
[0334] With reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, an erasing operation of
the flash memory of the present embodiment will be explained.
[0335] Block Erasing Operation
[0336] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating voltage waveforms of the
respective wirings during an erasing operation of the flash memory
of the present embodiment. FIG. 15 illustrates an example in which
data of the flash memory is erased in the block unit.
[0337] Time Point t30a
[0338] As illustrated in FIG. 15, for example, at a time point
t30a, the sequencer 19 starts an erasing operation on an erasing
target block (selected block) based on a command (a request from
the host device) from the memory controller 5 or an internal
process of the flash memory 1.
[0339] Time Point t31a
[0340] At a time point t31a, the sense amplifier circuit 13 and the
source line driver 15 start to control potentials of the bit line
BL and the source line SL. The sense amplifier unit 131 applies an
erasing voltage VERA to the bit line BL. The source line driver 15
applies the erasing voltage VERA to the source line SL
(CELSRC).
[0341] The row control circuit 12 starts to control potentials of
the word lines WL and the respective select gate lines SGD, SGS and
SGM in the selected block.
[0342] The row control circuit 12 applies a voltage V3 to the drain
side select gate lines SGD of all of the string units and the
source side select gate lines SGS of all of the string units in the
selected block. The row control circuit 12 applies the voltage V3
to the intermediate select gate lines SGM of all of the string
units in the selected block. Consequently, the respective select
transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3 are turned on. The voltage V3 is lower
than the erasing voltage VERA. For example, if the erasing voltage
VERA is about 20 V, the voltage V3 is about 13 V to 15 V.
[0343] The row control circuit 12 applies the ground voltage VSS to
all of the word lines WL in the selected block.
[0344] The erasing voltage VERA is applied to the semiconductor
pillars 75 and the well regions 702 via the bit lines BL and the
source lines SL (CELSRC).
[0345] As mentioned above, during the erasing operation, a
potential of the semiconductor pillar 75 is higher than a potential
of the word line WL. Consequently, electric charge in the charge
storage layer 792 is released to the semiconductor pillar 75. As a
result, the memory cell is set to an erasing state ("Er"
level).
[0346] Time Point t32a
[0347] At a time point t32a, the row control circuit 12 reduces
potentials of the select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM from the
voltage V3 to the ground voltage VSS.
[0348] In the sense amplifier circuit 13, the sense amplifier unit
131 reduces a potential of the bit line BL from the erasing voltage
VERA to the ground voltage VSS. The source line driver 15 reduces a
potential of the source line SL (CELSRC) from the erasing voltage
VERA to the ground voltage VSS.
[0349] Consequently, the erasing operation in the block unit in the
flash memory is finished.
[0350] Division Erasing Operation
[0351] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating voltage waveforms of the
respective wirings during an erasing operation of the flash memory
of the present embodiment. As described above, the flash memory may
erase data in the unit smaller than a block. FIG. 16 illustrates an
example in which data of the flash memory is erased in the
predetermined control unit in a block.
[0352] Time Point t30b
[0353] As illustrated in FIG. 16, for example, at a time point
t30b, the sequencer 19 starts an erasing operation based on a
command (a request from the host device) from the memory controller
5 or an internal process of the flash memory 1.
[0354] For example, if a partial erasing operation is performed, in
a selected block, one of control units for partial erasing, set in
the block, is selected. The control unit includes one or more word
lines.
[0355] Time Point t31b
[0356] At a time point t31b, the sense amplifier unit 131 applies
an erasing voltage VERA to the bit line BL in the same manner as in
the block erasing operation. The source line driver 15 applies the
erasing voltage VERA to the source line SL (CELSRC). The row
control circuit 12 applies the voltage V3 to the drain side select
gate lines SGD of all of the string units SU, the source side
select gate lines SGS of all of the string units SU, and the
intermediate select gate lines SGM of all of the string units SU,
in the selected block.
[0357] In the partial erasing operation, the row control circuit 12
applies the ground voltage VSS to word lines WL-S included in an
erasing target control unit (selected control unit) in the selected
block.
[0358] The row control circuit 12 applies the erasing voltage VERA
to word lines WL-US included in a control unit (non-selected
control unit) other than the erasing target.
[0359] A control unit (number of selected word lines) for partial
erasing may be a single array layer unit, and may be a unit smaller
than the array layer. A partial erasing unit may be larger than the
array layer.
[0360] In the erasing target control unit, electric charge in the
charge storage layer is released to the semiconductor pillar 75 due
to a potential difference between the semiconductor pillar 75 and
the word line WL-S. As a result, memory cells included in the
erasing target control unit are set to an erasing state.
[0361] On the other hand, in a non-selected control unit, since the
erasing voltage VERA is applied to the word lines WL-US, a
potential difference between the semiconductor pillar 75 and the
word line WL is scarcely generated. As a result, regarding memory
cells included in the non-selected control unit in the partial
erasing operation, a threshold voltage of the memory cell MC
scarcely changes and is thus maintained to a voltage value before
the erasing operation is performed.
[0362] Time Point t32b
[0363] At a time point t32b, the row control circuit 12 reduces
potentials of the word lines WL-US included in the non-selected
control unit from the erasing voltage VERA to the ground voltage
VSS.
[0364] In the same manner as in the block erasing operation,
potentials of the select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM, a potential
of the bit line BL, and a potential of the source line SL (CELSRC)
are set to the ground voltage VSS.
[0365] Consequently, the erasing operation on the control unit
smaller than the block in the flash memory is finished.
[0366] As mentioned above, in the partial erasing operation of the
flash memory, data is erased in an erasing target control unit in a
selected block. On the other hand, in the selected block, a
non-erasing target control unit holds data before the partial
erasing operation.
[0367] In the above-described way, in the flash memory of the
present embodiment, data held in a certain portion of a block is
selectively erased.
(c) SUMMARY
[0368] In the flash memory of a memory device of the present
embodiment, the memory cell array includes a plurality of stacked
array layers. In this case, the NAND string has a structure in
which a plurality of semiconductor pillars are stacked.
[0369] In the flash memory of the present embodiment, not only the
drain side and source select gate lines but also the intermediate
select gate lines are connected to the NAND string. The
intermediate select gate lines are provided in a region near the
junction of the stacked semiconductor pillars. The NAND string
includes not only the select transistors provided at one end and
the other end of the NAND string, but also the select transistors
connected to the intermediate select gate lines.
[0370] In the flash memory of the present embodiment, the
conductive layers are provided to oppose the side surfaces of the
semiconductor pillars in the region near the junction of a
plurality of semiconductor pillars. The conductive layers are used
as the select gate lines (intermediate select gate lines). The
select transistors are provided in a portion where the intermediate
select gate lines oppose the semiconductor pillars.
[0371] Consequently, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
control an electrical conduction state between the semiconductor
pillar of the lower array layer and the semiconductor pillar of the
upper array layer by controlling potentials of the intermediate
select gate lines.
[0372] The flash memory of the present embodiment can electrically
connect a semiconductor pillar in an array layer including a
selected word line, among a plurality of array layers and among a
plurality of semiconductor pillars included in the NAND string, to
a bit line or a source line, in a non-selected string unit, and can
electrically separate the semiconductor pillars in the other array
layers from the bit line or the source line.
[0373] Consequently, regarding a semiconductor pillar connected to
the bit line or the source line, electric charge in the
semiconductor pillar can be removed.
[0374] Therefore, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
reduce the occurrence of reading disturbance.
[0375] The flash memory of the present embodiment can cause a
semiconductor pillar of an electrically separated portion among the
plurality of stacked array layers, to be subject to channel
boosting. Consequently, the flash memory of the present embodiment
can prevent the occurrence of a capacitance component during an
operation.
[0376] Therefore, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
reduce a load caused by a capacitance component of a semiconductor
pillar and can thus reduce a current (load current) caused by the
load. As a result, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
reduce a peak value of a current generated in a memory cell array,
suppress an increase in power consumption, and prevent
deterioration in an operation speed.
[0377] The flash memory of the present embodiment can electrically
separate the upper array layer and the lower array layer from each
other by controlling a potential of the select gate line
(turning-on and turning-off of the select transistor), and can thus
suppress an increase in the number of dummy word lines for securing
a distance between elements. Consequently, the flash memory of the
present embodiment can realize improvement of memory density in a
memory cell array, a reduction in the number of wirings, a
reduction in a thickness (a dimension in the D3 direction) of a
memory cell array, and the like. As a result, the flash memory of
the present embodiment can reduce chip cost of the flash
memory.
[0378] As mentioned above, the memory device of the present
embodiment can improve operation characteristics.
(2) Second Embodiment
[0379] With reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, a memory device and a
control method therefor according to a second embodiment will be
explained.
[0380] In a flash memory of the second embodiment, a voltage
sensing method (bit line shield method) is used for a determination
of a threshold voltage of a memory cell.
[0381] In the voltage sensing method, a change in a potential of a
bit line due to turning-on or turning-off of a memory cell is
sensed, and thus a state of a threshold voltage of the memory cell
is determined.
[0382] Fundamental configurations of a circuit and a structure of
the flash memory of the present embodiment are substantially the
same as the configurations of the flash memory of the first
embodiment. However, in the flash memory using the voltage sensing
method, a single sense amplifier unit 131 may control two bit lines
(even-numbered and odd-numbered bit lines) adjacent to each
other.
(2a) Operation Example
[0383] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Upper Array Layer
[0384] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating voltage waveforms of the
respective wirings during a read operation of the flash memory of
the present embodiment.
[0385] Time Point t11a
[0386] As illustrated in FIG. 17, in the same manner as in data
reading in the flash memory using the current sensing method, at a
time point t0, the sequencer 19 starts a data read operation based
on a reading command and a selection address from the memory
controller 5.
[0387] At a time point t11a, the row control circuit 12 starts to
control potentials of the drain side select gate lines SGD-S and
SGD-US, and potentials of the intermediate select gate lines SGM-S
and SGM-US.
[0388] The row control circuit 12 applies the voltage VSG to the
source side select gate line SGS-S of a selected string unit. The
row control circuit 12 applies the ground voltage VSS to the
non-selected source side select gate line SGS-US of a non-selected
string unit.
[0389] Time Point t12a and Time Point t13a
[0390] At a time point t12a, the row control circuit 12 starts to
apply a voltage to the word lines WLU and WLL.
[0391] In a period TA from the time point t12a to the time point
t13a, the voltage VSG is applied to the non-selected drain side
select gate line SGD-US, and thus the select transistor ST1 is
turned on. Consequently, the semiconductor pillar 75B of the upper
array layer 110B of the non-selected string unit is electrically
connected to the bit line BL via the transistor ST1 in the on
state. As a result, not only residual electric charge in the
semiconductor pillars 75 of the selected string unit but also
residual electric charge in the semiconductor pillar 75B of the
upper array layer 110B of the non-selected string unit are released
to the bit line BL.
[0392] In the period TA, in the non-selected string unit SU, the
ground voltage VSS is applied to the non-selected source side
select gate line SGS-US and the intermediate select gate lines SGM,
and thus the select transistors ST2 and the select transistor ST3
are turned off. Therefore, in the period TA, the semiconductor
pillar 75A of the lower array layer 110A is electrically separated
from the bit line BL and the source line SL (CELSRC) and is thus in
an electrically floating state.
[0393] At the time point t13a, the row control circuit 12 controls
the selected word line WL-S in order to set a potential of the
selected word line WL-S of the upper array layer 110B to the
reading voltage VCGRV. The sense amplifier unit 131 starts to apply
a voltage to the bit line BL. Here, if a single sense amplifier
unit 131 controls two bit lines, the sense amplifier unit 131
charges one bit line (for example, an odd-numbered bit line) and
applies the ground voltage VSS to the other bit line (for example,
an even-numbered bit line).
[0394] The row control circuit 12 reduces a potential of the
non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US of the non-selected
string unit from the voltage VSGD to the ground voltage VSS. The
potential of the selected drain side select gate line SGD-S is
maintained to be the voltage VSG.
[0395] The row control circuit 12 controls the selected word line
WL-S and the bit line BL, and also reduces a potential of the
source side select gate line SGS-S from the voltage VSG to the
ground voltage VSS. Since the ground voltage VSS is applied, the
select transistor ST2 of the source side select gate line SGS-S is
turned off. The bit line BL and the semiconductor pillars 75 are
electrically separated from the source line SL (CELSRC) by turning
off the select transistor ST2, and thus the bit line BL and the
semiconductor pillars 75 are charged.
[0396] Time Point t14a
[0397] In a period TB from the time point t13a to a time point
t14a, the bit line BL is charged to a desired potential Vpre.
[0398] At the time point t14a, a potential of the selected word
line WL-S is set to the reading voltage VCGRV. The row control
circuit 12 increases a potential of the source side select gate
line SGS-S from the ground voltage VSS to the voltage VSG.
[0399] In the selected string unit, if the potential of the source
side select gate line SGS-S reaches the voltage VSG, the select
transistor ST2 is turned on, and thus the source line SL (CELSRC)
is electrically connected to the semiconductor pillar 75B. At this
time, in the non-selected string unit, the lower semiconductor
pillar 75A is subject to channel boosting.
[0400] When the reading voltage VCGRV is applied, if the selected
cell is turned on, the bit line BL is electrically connected to the
source line SL (CELSRC), and thus the bit line is discharged.
Consequently, a potential of the bit line BL is reduced from the
voltage Vpre. The sense amplifier unit 131 senses that the
potential of the bit line BL is reduced.
[0401] When the reading voltage VCGRV is applied, if the selected
cell is turned off, the bit line BL is electrically separated from
the source line SL (CELSRC). Consequently, a potential of the bit
line BL is maintained to be the voltage Vpre. The sense amplifier
unit 131 senses that the potential of the bit line BL is
maintained.
[0402] As mentioned above, in the data read operation using the
voltage sensing method, each sense amplifier unit 131 senses
whether or not a potential of the bit line BL changes.
Consequently, data held in the memory cell MC is determined.
[0403] During a determination of a threshold voltage of the memory
cell, the lower semiconductor pillar of the non-selected string
unit is subject to channel boosting, and thus a load caused by a
capacitance component of the lower semiconductor pillar is
reduced.
[0404] Time Point t15a to Time Point t16a
[0405] At a time point t15a, the sense amplifier unit 131 reduces a
potential of the bit line BL from the voltage Vpre to the ground
voltage VSS.
[0406] At a time point t16a, the row control circuit 12 reduces
potentials of the select gate lines SGD-S, SGM-S and SGS-S from the
voltage VSG to the ground voltage VSS. The row control circuit 12
reduces a potential of the selected word line WL-S from the voltage
VCGRV to the ground voltage VSS, and reduces a potential of the
non-selected word line WL-US from the reading pass voltage VREAD to
the ground voltage VSS.
[0407] Consequently, reading of data from the memory cell of the
upper array layer 110B is finished.
[0408] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Lower Array Layer
[0409] With reference to FIG. 18, reading of data from the memory
cell of the lower array layer in the flash memory using the voltage
sensing method will be explained. FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating
voltage waveforms of the respective wirings during a read operation
of the flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0410] Time Point t11b
[0411] As illustrated in FIG. 18, in the same manner as in the
example illustrated in FIG. 17, after a data read operation is
started based on a reading command and a selection address (time
point t0), at a time point t11b, the row control circuit 12 applies
the voltage VSG to the respective select gate lines SGD-S, SGS-S
and SGM-S of a selected string unit.
[0412] If the word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A is
selected, the row control circuit 12 applies the ground voltage VSS
to the non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US of a
non-selected string unit. The row control circuit 12 applies the
voltage VSG to the source side select gate line SGS-S of the
selected string unit and also to the non-selected source side
select gate lines SGS-US of the non-selected string unit. The row
control circuit 12 applies the ground voltage VSS to the
non-selected intermediate select gate lines SGM-US of the
non-selected string unit.
[0413] Time Point t12b and Time Point t13b
[0414] At a time point t12b, the row control circuit 12 starts to
apply the reading pass voltage VREAD to the word lines WLU and
WLL.
[0415] In a period TA (a time point t12b to a time point t13b), the
voltage VSG is applied to the source side select gate line SGS-S,
and thus the select transistor ST2 is turned on. Consequently, the
semiconductor pillar 75A of the lower array layer 110A of the
non-selected string unit is electrically connected to the source
line SL (CELSRC). As a result, not only residual electric charge in
the semiconductor pillars 75 of the selected string unit but also
residual electric charge in the semiconductor pillar 75A of the
non-selected string unit are released to the source line SL
(CELSRC) (or the well region).
[0416] In the period TA, the ground voltage VSS is applied to the
intermediate select gate lines SGM-S. Consequently, the
semiconductor pillar 75B of the upper array layer 110B of the
non-selected string unit is electrically separated from the source
line SL (CELSRC). In the upper array layer 110B, the semiconductor
pillar 75B is in an electrically floating state.
[0417] At the time point t13b, the sense amplifier unit 131 starts
to charge the bit line BL. The row control circuit 12 reduces
potentials of the selected source side select gate line SGS-S and
the non-selected source side select gate line SGS-US from the
voltage VSG to the ground voltage VSS. The row control circuit 12
applies the reading voltage VCGRV to the selected word line WL-S in
the lower array layer 110A.
[0418] Time Point t14b
[0419] At a time point t14b, the row control circuit 12 increases a
potential of the source side select gate line SGS-S from the ground
voltage VSS to the voltage VSG. Since the select transistor ST2 is
turned on, the source line SL (CELSRC) is electrically connected to
the semiconductor pillar 75A.
[0420] The reading voltage VCGRV is applied, and thus the selected
cell is turned on or off. A change in a potential of the bit line
BL due to turning-on or turning-off of a selected cell is sensed by
the sense amplifier unit 131. As a result, data held in the memory
cell MC is determined.
[0421] In a period TC, in a determination of data held in the
memory cell, the semiconductor pillar 75B of the upper array layer
110B of the non-selected string unit is subject to channel
boosting, and thus a capacitance component between the
semiconductor pillar 75B and the word line WLU is scarcely
generated.
[0422] Time Point t15b to Time Point t16b
[0423] At a time point t15b, the sense amplifier unit 131 reduces a
potential of the bit line BL to the ground voltage VSS.
[0424] At a time point t16b, the row control circuit 12 reduces
potentials of the select gate lines SGD-S, SGM-S and SGS-S to the
ground voltage VSS. The row control circuit 12 reduces potentials
of the selected word line WL-S and the non-selected word line WL-US
to the ground voltage VSS.
[0425] Consequently, reading of data from the memory cell of the
lower array layer 110A is finished.
[0426] In the present embodiment, a data write operation and a data
erasing operation are performed in the same manner as in the first
embodiment. During a write operation, the operations illustrated in
FIGS. 17 and 18 correspond to a verification operation.
[0427] As mentioned above, the flash memory of the present
embodiment can reduce reading disturbance during an operation even
if the voltage sensing method is applied to a determination of a
threshold voltage of the memory cell in a read operation (and a
verification operation) of the flash memory, and can also reduce a
capacitance component of a certain portion in a selected block. As
a result, a load caused by a capacitance component of the
semiconductor pillar can be reduced.
[0428] Therefore, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
achieve the same effect that the effect in the first
embodiment.
[0429] Therefore, the flash memory of the second embodiment can
improve operation characteristics.
(3) Third Embodiment
[0430] With reference to FIG. 19, a memory device and a control
method therefor according to a third embodiment will be
explained.
[0431] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating voltage waveforms of the
respective wirings during a read operation (or a verification
operation) of a flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0432] In the present embodiment, in the flash memory using the
current sensing method, a timing of applying a voltage to a
non-selected word line of the upper array layer and a timing of
applying a voltage to a non-selected word line of the lower array
layer are different from each other.
Operation Example
[0433] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Upper Array Layer
[0434] Time Point t1c and Time Point t2c
[0435] As illustrated in FIG. 19, after reading of data is started,
at a time point t1c, the voltage VSG is applied to the drain side
select gate lines SGD-S and SGD-US, and the selected intermediate
select gate lines SGM-S.
[0436] At a time point t2c, if a word line WL in the upper array
layer 110B is selected, a voltage starts to be applied to the
selected word line WL-S, and a non-selected word line WL-US in the
upper array layer 110B.
[0437] In the present embodiment, application of a voltage to the
word line WLL in the lower array layer 110A is performed at a
timing which is different from a timing at which a voltage is
applied to a word line WLU in the upper array layer 110B including
the selected word line WL-S.
[0438] Therefore, at the time point t2c, a voltage does not start
to be applied to the word line WLL, and a potential of the word
line WLL is maintained to be the ground voltage VSS.
[0439] Since the potential of the word line WLL is maintained to be
the ground voltage VSS, the selected source side select gate line
SGS-S is maintained to be the ground voltage VSS.
[0440] The memory cell in the lower array layer 110A is turned off
since the ground voltage VSS is applied to the word line WLL. The
elements and the wirings of the upper array layer 110B are
electrically separated from the source line SL (CELSRC) by turning
off the memory cells MC of the lower array layer 110A regardless of
turning-on and turning-off of the select transistor ST2 of the
selected source side select gate line SGS-S.
[0441] If the ground voltage VSS is applied, and thus the memory
cell MC of the word line WLL is turned off, an adverse effect does
not occur in a read operation even if a potential of the selected
source side select gate line SGS-S is maintained to be the ground
voltage VSS when a voltage starts to be applied to the selected
word line WL-S of the upper array layer 110B.
[0442] Time Point t3c to Time Point t5c
[0443] After a release process in a period TA (the time point t2c
to a time point t3c), at the time point t3c, the reading pass
voltage VREAD starts to be applied to a word line (non-selected
word line) WLL of the lower array layer 110A. In a selected string
unit, the voltage VSG starts to be applied to the source side
select gate line SGS-S.
[0444] Consequently, in a period TB from the time point t3c to the
time point t4c, a potential of the word line WLL is set to the
reading pass voltage VREAD, and a potential of the selected source
side select gate line SGS-S is set to the voltage VSG, along with
charging of the bit line BL.
[0445] In a period TC from the time point t4c to a time point t5c,
the generation of a cell current due to turning-on or turning-off
of a selected cell is sensed by the sense amplifier unit 131 in a
state in which the lower semiconductor pillar 75A of the
non-selected string unit is subject to a channel boosting.
Consequently, data held in the selected cell is read.
[0446] Thereafter, at the time point t5c and a time point t6c, the
word lines WL and the select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM are
disabled, and thus the read operation of the flash memory 1 is
completed.
[0447] If the word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A is
selected, a voltage starts to be applied to the word line WLL of
the lower array layer 110A at the time point t2c in FIG. 19.
Thereafter, a voltage starts to be applied to the word line WLU of
the upper array layer 110B at the time point t3c in FIG. 19.
[0448] In this case, in the selected and non-selected string units,
timings of applying voltages to the select gate lines SGD, SGS and
SGM are the same as the timings illustrated in FIG. 13. However, in
the period TA, the ground voltage VSS may be applied to the select
gate lines SGD-S and SGM-S of the selected string unit.
[0449] As mentioned above, in the flash memory of the present
embodiment, even if timings of control on the word lines are
different from each other, the substantially same effects as the
effects in the above-described embodiments can be achieved.
(4) Fourth Embodiment
[0450] With reference to FIG. 20, a memory device according to a
fourth embodiment will be explained.
[0451] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating voltage waveforms of the
respective wirings during a read operation (or a verification
operation) of a flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0452] In the present embodiment, in the flash memory using the
voltage sensing method, a timing of applying a voltage to a
non-selected word line of the upper array layer and a timing of
applying a voltage to a non-selected word line of the lower array
layer are different from each other.
Operation Example
[0453] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Upper Array Layer
[0454] Time Point t11c and Time Point t12c
[0455] As illustrated in FIG. 20, at a time point t11c, the voltage
VSG is applied to the drain side select gate lines SGD-S and SGD-US
and SGM-S in the same manner as in the example illustrated in FIG.
19.
[0456] At a time point t12c, the word line WLU of the upper array
layer 110B is selected based on a selection address. A voltage
starts to be applied to the word line WLU. A potential of the word
line WLL of the lower array layer 110A is maintained to be the
ground voltage VSS.
[0457] In a period TA from the time point t11c to a time point
t13c, potentials of the source side select gate lines SGS-S and
SGS-US of the selected string unit and the non-selected string unit
are maintained to be the ground voltage VSS. Since the memory cell
of the lower array layer 110A is turned off, the source side select
transistor ST2 of the NAND string 111 may be turned off.
[0458] In the period TA, electric charge in the semiconductor
pillars 75A and 75B is released to the bit line BL via the
turned-on drain side select transistor ST1.
[0459] Time Point t13c
[0460] At the time point t13c, the bit line starts to be
charged.
[0461] A potential of the non-selected drain side select gate line
SGD-US of the non-selected string unit transitions from the voltage
VSG to the ground voltage VSS.
[0462] The reading pass voltage VREAD is applied to the word line
(non-selected word line) WLL (WL-US) of the lower array layer
110A.
[0463] In a period TB from the time point t12c to the time point
t13c following the period TA, potentials of the source side select
gate lines SGS-S and SGS-US are maintained to be the ground voltage
VSS.
[0464] Time Point t14c to Time Point t15c
[0465] At a time point t14c, in the selected string unit, the
voltage VSG is applied to the source side select gate line SGS-S.
The select transistor ST2 connected to the source side select gate
line SGS-S is turned on. The source line SL (CELSRC) is
electrically connected to the NAND string 111 of the selected
string unit via the turned-on select transistor ST2.
[0466] In a period TC from the time point t14c to a time point
t15c, a change in a potential of the bit line BL due to turning-on
or turning-off of a selected cell is sensed by the sense amplifier
unit 131. As a result, data held in the selected cell is read.
[0467] Since the lower pillar of the non-selected string unit is
subject to channel boosting when a potential of the bit line BL is
sensed, a load caused by a capacitance component of the
semiconductor pillar is reduced.
[0468] If the word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A is
selected, voltages start to be applied to the selected and
non-selected word lines WLL of the lower array layer 110A at the
time point t12c in FIG. 20, and a voltage starts to be applied to
the word line WLU of the upper array layer 110B at the time point
t13c in FIG. 20. In this case, timings of applying voltages to the
select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM are the same as in the example
illustrated in FIG. 18. However, in the period TA, the ground
voltage VSS may be applied to the select gate lines SGD-S and SGM-S
of the selected string unit.
[0469] As mentioned above, a read operation on the memory cell of
the lower array layer 110A is performed.
[0470] As mentioned above, even if timings of control on the word
lines are different from each other, the flash memory of the
present embodiment can improve operation characteristics in a
voltage sensing type flash memory.
(5) Fifth Embodiment
[0471] With reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, a memory device and a
control method therefor according to a fifth embodiment will be
explained. FIGS. 21 and 22 are diagrams illustrating voltage
waveforms of the respective wirings during a read operation (or a
verification operation) of a flash memory of the present
embodiment.
[0472] During a data read operation of the flash memory, a voltage
VSRC higher than the ground voltage VSS may be applied to the
source line SL (CELSRC). Since the positive voltage VSRC is applied
to the source line (and the well region), even if a part of a
threshold voltage value distribution corresponding to data is
present in a negative voltage region, a threshold voltage of the
memory cell may be regarded as having a positive voltage value due
to a relative potential relationship.
[0473] Hereinafter, in the read operation of the flash memory, an
operation example of the flash memory of the present embodiment if
a certain voltage VSRC (VSRC>VSS) is applied to the source line
SL will be explained. In the present embodiment, a determination of
a threshold voltage of each memory cell in the flash memory is
performed by using the current sensing method.
Operation Example
[0474] Read Operation on Upper Array Layer
[0475] Time Point t1d
[0476] As illustrated in FIG. 21, at a time point t1d, the voltage
VSG is applied to the drain side select gate lines SGD-S and
SGD-US, and the source side select gate line SGS-S of a selected
string unit.
[0477] In the present embodiment, the source line driver 15 applies
the source line voltage VSRC to the source line SL (CELSRC). The
voltage VSRC is higher than the ground voltage VSS. For example,
the voltage VSRC is lower than the voltage VSG.
[0478] If the voltage VSRC is applied to the source line SL
(CELSRC), the row control circuit 12 applies the voltage VSRC to
the non-selected source side select gate line SGS-US and the
non-selected intermediate select gate lines SGM-US of a
non-selected string unit.
[0479] Since the voltage VSG is sufficiently higher than the
voltage VSRC, even if the voltage VSRC is applied to the sources or
the drains of the transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3, and the select
transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3 of which the voltage VSG is applied to
the gates are turned on. A voltage higher than the voltage VSG may
be applied to the select gate lines SGD, SGS and SGM in
consideration of application of the voltage VSRC.
[0480] For example, at the time point t1d, the sense amplifier unit
131 applies the voltage VSRC to the bit line BL. Since a potential
of the bit line BL is set to be the same as a potential of the
source line SL (CELSRC), a through-current can be prevented from
flowing through the NAND string 111. However, in a period TA, a
potential of the bit line BL may be set to the ground voltage
VSS.
[0481] In the non-selected string unit, if the voltage VSRC is
applied to the source or the drain of the transistor although the
voltage VSRC is applied the gate thereof, the potentials of the
gate and the source or the drain are substantially the same as each
other, and thus the select transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3 are turned
off.
[0482] Time Point t2d to Time Point t3d
[0483] At a time point t2d, voltages start to be applied to the
word lines WLU and WLL. In the same manner as in the
above-described embodiments, in the period TA, residual electric
charge is released from the semiconductor pillars 75 to the bit
line BL or the source line SL (CELSRC) via the turned-on select
transistors ST1 and ST2. In the non-selected string unit, the
semiconductor pillar 75A of the lower array layer 110A is
electrically separated from the bit line BL and the source line SL
(CELSRC) by turning off the select transistors ST2 and ST3.
[0484] At a time point t3d, among a plurality of word lines WLU and
WLL, a potential of the selected word line WL-S of the upper array
layer 110B is controlled to be set to the reading voltage VCGRV. A
potential of the non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US is
reduced from the voltage VSG to the voltage VSRC.
[0485] In the period TA, if a potential of the bit line BL is set
to the ground voltage VSS, the bit line BL starts to be charged at
the time point t3d.
[0486] Time Point t4d to Time Point t6d
[0487] In a period TC from a time point t4d to a time point t5d,
the generation of a current in the bit line BL is sensed. In the
period TC, potentials of the source line SL (CELSRC) and the
non-selected select gate lines SGD-US, SGM-US and SGS-US are
maintained to be the voltage VSRC.
[0488] In the period TC, in the non-selected string unit, the
semiconductor pillar 75A of the lower array layer 110A is subject
to channel boosting, and thus a capacitance component between the
word line WL and the semiconductor pillar 75A is scarcely
generated. Therefore, a state of a threshold voltage of the memory
cell is determined in a state in which a load caused by a parasitic
capacitance of the semiconductor pillar 75A is reduced.
[0489] At a time point t5d, a potential of the bit line BL is set
to the ground voltage VSS.
[0490] At a time point t6d, potentials of the word lines WLU and
WLL, and potentials of the select gate lines SGD, SGM and SGS are
set to the ground voltage VSS.
[0491] In a period from the time point t3d to the time point t6d, a
potential of the source line SL (CELSRC), and potentials of the
non-selected select gate lines SGD-US, SGM-US and SGS-US are
maintained to be the voltage VSRC.
[0492] At the time point t6d, the source line driver 15 controls
the source line CELSRC so as to set a potential of the source line
SL (CELSRC) to the ground voltage VSS. The row control circuit 12
sets potentials of the non-selected select gate lines SGD-US,
SGM-US and SGS-US to the ground voltage VSS.
[0493] Consequently, in the flash memory of the present embodiment,
reading of data from the memory cell MC of the upper array layer
110B is finished.
[0494] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Lower Array Layer
[0495] With reference to FIG. 22, a data read operation on the
memory cell of the lower array layer will be explained.
[0496] Time Point t1e
[0497] During a read operation on the lower array layer 110A, at a
time point t1e, the voltage VSRC is applied to the source line SL
(CELSRC), and the non-selected drain side select gate lines SGD-US
and SGM-US of a non-selected string unit. The voltage VSG is
applied to the non-selected source side select gate line SGS-US of
the non-selected string unit.
[0498] Potentials of the select gate lines SGD-S, SGS-S and SGM-S
of a selected string unit are controlled in the same manner as in
the example illustrated in FIG. 21.
[0499] Time Point t2e to Time Point t3e
[0500] At a time point t2e, voltages start to be applied to the
word lines WLU and WLL.
[0501] In a period TA, residual electric charge is released to the
bit line BL or the source line SL (CELSRC) via the turned-on select
transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3.
[0502] At a time point t3e, a potential of the selected word line
WL-S of the lower array layer 110A is set to the reading voltage
VCGRV, and a potential of the non-selected source side select gate
line SGS-US is set to the voltage VSRC.
[0503] Time Point t4e to Time Point t6e
[0504] After the bit line BL is charged to the predetermined
voltage Vpre, a current of the bit line BL is sensed in a period TC
in the same manner as in the example illustrated in FIG. 21. In the
period TC, the upper semiconductor pillar 75B of the non-selected
string unit is subject to channel boosting, and thus a load caused
by a capacitance component of the upper semiconductor pillar 75B is
reduced.
[0505] Thereafter, at a time point t5e and a time point t6e,
potentials of the respective wirings are set to the ground voltage
VSS.
[0506] As mentioned above, reading of data from the memory cell of
the lower array layer 110A in the flash memory of the present
embodiment is finished.
[0507] An operation similar to the operation illustrated in FIG. 21
or 22 is also applied to a verification operation, and thus a state
of a threshold voltage of a memory cell in a write operation can be
determined.
[0508] As in the present embodiment, even if a read operation (or a
verification operation) is performed in a state in which the
voltage VSRC higher than the ground voltage is applied to the
source line SL (CELSRC), the flash memory of the present embodiment
can improve operation characteristics.
(6) Sixth Embodiment
[0509] With reference to FIGS. 23 and 24, a memory device and a
control method therefor according to a sixth embodiment will be
explained. FIGS. 23 and 24 are diagrams illustrating voltage
waveforms of the respective wirings during a read operation (or a
verification operation) of a flash memory of the present
embodiment.
[0510] If a read operation (or a verification operation) of the
flash memory is performed according to the voltage sensing method,
the voltage VSRC may be applied to the source line SL.
[0511] Hereinafter, a description will be made of an example in
which the flash memory of the present embodiment performs a
determination of a threshold voltage of a memory cell according to
the voltage sensing method in a state in which the voltage VSRC is
applied to the source line SL.
Operation Example
[0512] Read Operation on Upper Array Layer
[0513] With reference to FIG. 23, a read operation on a memory cell
of the upper array layer according to the voltage sensing method in
the flash memory of the present embodiment will be explained.
[0514] Time Point t11d to Time Point t12d
[0515] As illustrated in FIG. 23, at a time point t11d, the voltage
VSG is applied to the drain side select gate lines SGD-S and
SGD-US, the source side select gate line SGS-S, and non-selected
the intermediate select gate lines SGM-US. In a non-selected string
unit, the voltage VSRC is applied to the non-selected intermediate
select gate lines SGM-US and the non-selected source side select
gate line SGS-US.
[0516] The voltage VSRC is applied to the source line SL (CELSRC)
For example, the voltage VSRC is applied to the bit line BL.
[0517] As described above, the select transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3
of a selected string unit are turned on, and the drain side select
transistor ST1 of the non-selected string unit is turned on.
[0518] In a period TA (the time point t12d to a time point t13d),
electric charge in the semiconductor pillars 75 is released to the
bit line BL or the source line SL (CELSRC) via the turned-on select
transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3.
[0519] Time Point t13d
[0520] At the time point t13d, the bit line BL starts to be
charged.
[0521] A potential of the source side select gate line SGS-S is
reduced from the voltage VSG to the voltage VSRC. Consequently, the
select transistor ST2 connected to the source side select gate line
SGS-S is turned off, and, in the selected string unit, the bit line
BL and the semiconductor pillars 75 are charged in a state of being
electrically separated from the source line SL (CELSRC).
[0522] A potential of the non-selected drain side select gate line
SGD-US is reduced from the voltage VSG to the voltage VSRC, and
thus the select transistor ST1 is turned off.
[0523] A potential of the selected word line WL-S of the upper
array layer 110B is set to the reading voltage VCGRV.
[0524] Time Point t14d
[0525] At a time point t14d, in the selected string unit, a
potential of the source side select gate line SGS-S is increased
from the voltage VSRC to the voltage VSG. Consequently, the select
transistor ST2 is turned on, and thus the lower semiconductor
pillar 75A is electrically connected to the source line SL
(CELSRC).
[0526] In a period TC, a potential of the bit line BL is sensed,
and thus data held in the memory cell of the upper array layer 110B
is read. In this case, in the non-selected string unit, the
semiconductor pillar 75A of the lower array layer 110A is subject
to channel boosting, and thus a capacitance component between the
semiconductor pillar 75A and the word line WLL is reduced.
[0527] Time Point t15d and Time Point t16d
[0528] At a time point t15d, charging of the bit line BL is
stopped, and a potential of the bit line BL is set to the ground
voltage VSS.
[0529] At a time point t16d, potentials of the word lines WLU and
WLL, and potentials of the selected select gate lines SGD-S, SGM-S
and SGS-S are set to the ground voltage VSS. Potentials of the
non-selected select gate lines SGD-US, SGM-US and SGS-US are set to
the ground voltage VSS.
[0530] The source line driver 15 sets a potential of the source
line SL (CELSRC) to the ground voltage VSS.
[0531] As mentioned above, reading of data from the memory cell of
the upper array layer 110B in the flash memory of the present
embodiment is finished.
[0532] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Lower Array Layer
[0533] With reference to FIG. 24, a read operation on a memory cell
of the lower array layer according to the voltage sensing method in
the flash memory of the present embodiment will be explained.
[0534] Time Point t11e and Time Point t12e
[0535] As illustrated in FIG. 24, at a time point t11e, the voltage
VSG is applied not only to the respective select gate lines SGD-S,
SGS-S and SGM-S of a selected string unit but also to the
non-selected source side select gate line SGS-US of a non-selected
string unit.
[0536] The voltage VSRC is applied to the non-selected drain side
select gate line SGD-US and the non-selected intermediate select
gate lines SGM-US.
[0537] In the same manner as in the example illustrated in FIG. 23,
the voltage VSRC is applied to the source line SL (CELSRC) and the
bit line BL.
[0538] In a period TA, electric charge in the semiconductor pillars
75 is released to the bit line BL or the source line SL (CELSRC)
via the turned-on select transistors ST1, ST2 and ST3.
[0539] In this case, in the non-selected string unit SU, the upper
semiconductor pillar 75B is electrically separated from the bit
line BL and the lower semiconductor pillar 75A.
[0540] Time Point t13e
[0541] At a time point t13e, in order to charge the bit line BL and
the semiconductor pillars 75, potentials of the source side select
gate lines SGS-S and SGS-US are reduced from the voltage VSG to the
voltage VSRC. Consequently, the source side select transistors ST2
are turned off.
[0542] The selected word line WL-S of the lower array layer 110A is
reduced to the reading voltage VCGRV.
[0543] Time Point t14e to Time Point t16e
[0544] At a time point t14e, in the selected string unit, a
potential of the source side select gate line SGS-S is increased
from the voltage VSRC to the voltage VSG. Consequently, the select
transistor ST2 is turned on, and thus the lower semiconductor
pillar 75A is electrically connected to the source line SL
(CELSRC).
[0545] A state of a potential of the bit line BL corresponding to
turning-on and turning-off of a selected cell is sensed, and thus
data held in the memory cell of the lower array layer 110A is
read.
[0546] When the data held in the memory cell of the lower array
layer 110A is read, in the non-selected string unit, the
semiconductor pillar 75B of the upper array layer 110B is subject
to channel boosting, and thus a capacitance component between the
semiconductor pillar 75B and the word line WLU is reduced. As a
result, a load current caused by the capacitance component between
the word line and the upper semiconductor pillar is reduced.
[0547] In the same manner as in the example illustrated in FIG. 23,
at a time point t15e and a time point t16e, the respective wirings
are disabled.
[0548] As mentioned above, reading of data from the memory cell of
the lower array layer 110A in the flash memory of the present
embodiment is finished.
[0549] Even if a read operation is performed in a state in which
the voltage VSRC higher than the ground voltage VSS is applied to
the source line SL (CELSRC), the flash memory of the present
embodiment can perform a read operation using the voltage sensing
method.
[0550] As mentioned above, the flash memory of the present
embodiment can improve operation characteristics in the same manner
as in the above-described embodiments.
(7) Seventh Embodiment
[0551] With reference to FIG. 25, a memory device and a control
method therefor according to a seventh embodiment will be
explained. FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating voltage waveforms of
the respective wirings during a read operation (or a verification
operation) of a flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0552] In a read operation of the flash memory using the current
sensing method, timings for controlling a voltage of a word line
may be different between an array layer including a selected word
line and an array layer not including the selected word line even
if data is read in a state in which the voltage VSRC is applied to
the source line SL (CELSRC). Some word lines of a selected block
are disabled during an initial operation, and thus an amount of a
cell current generated in the selected block is reduced. As a
result, the flash memory of the present embodiment can reduce power
consumption.
[0553] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Upper Array Layer
[0554] With reference to FIG. 25, a read operation on a memory cell
of the upper array layer according to the current sensing method in
the flash memory of the present embodiment will be explained.
[0555] Time Point t1f
[0556] As illustrated in FIG. 25, at a time point t1f, the voltage
VSG is applied to the drain side select gate lines SGD-S and
SGD-US, and the intermediate select gate lines SGM-S. The voltage
VSRC is applied to the source side select gate lines SGS-S and
SGS-US, and the non-selected intermediate select gate lines
SGM-US.
[0557] The voltage VSRC is applied to the source line SL (CELSRC)
and the bit line BL. A potential of the gate of the transistor is
substantially the same as a potential of the source or the drain
thereof, and thus the select transistors ST2 and ST3 of which the
voltage VSRC is applied to the gates are maintained to be turned
off.
[0558] Time Point t2f
[0559] If the word line WLU of the upper array layer 110B is
selected as a read operation target, a voltage starts to be applied
to the word line WLU at a time point t2f.
[0560] A potential of the word line WLL of the lower array layer
110A is maintained to be ground voltage VSS. Since the memory cell
of the lower array layer 110A is turned off, the source side select
transistor ST2 may be turned off. In this case, at the time point
t1f and the time point t2f, the voltage VSRC is applied to the
source side select gate line SGS-S of a selected string unit.
[0561] Time Point t3f
[0562] At a time point t3f, the reading voltage VCGRV for the
selected word line WL-S is controlled, and a voltage also starts to
be applied to the word line (non-selected word line) WLL of the
lower array layer 110A.
[0563] In the selected string unit, a potential of the source side
select gate line SGS-S is increased from the voltage VSRC to the
voltage VSG.
[0564] In a non-selected string unit, a potential of the
non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US is reduced from the
voltage VSG to the voltage VSRC. Consequently, the drain side
select transistor ST1 of the non-selected string unit is turned
off.
[0565] In a period TA from the time point t2f to the time point
t3f, residual electric charge is released from the semiconductor
pillars 75 to the bit line BL via the turned-on transistors ST1 and
ST3 and memory cell MC. In the period TA, a potential of the word
line WLL of the lower array layer 110A is set to the ground voltage
VSS, and thus the memory cell MC is turned off. The semiconductor
pillar 75B of the upper array layer 110B is electrically separated
from the source line SL (CELSRC). In the period TA, even if a
potential of the selected source side select gate line SGS-S is set
to the voltage VSRC, an adverse effect on removal of residual
electric charge in the semiconductor pillar 75B scarcely
occurs.
[0566] Time Point t4f to Time Point t6f
[0567] After the bit line BL is charged in a period TB, in a period
TC from a time point t4f to a time point t5f, the generation of a
current in the bit line BL is sensed in a state in which a
capacitance component (load) of the lower semiconductor pillar 75A
of the non-selected string unit is reduced.
[0568] Thereafter, potentials of the respective wirings are set to
the ground voltage VSS.
[0569] Consequently, reading of data from the memory cell of the
upper array layer 110B in the flash memory of the present
embodiment is finished.
[0570] If the word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A is
selected as a reading target, potentials of the bit line BL, the
source line SL (CELSRC), and the respective select gate lines SGS,
SGD and SGM are controlled in the same manner as in the example
illustrated in FIG. 22.
[0571] However, in the present embodiment, control of voltages for
the word lines WLL and WLU are different from the control in the
example illustrated in FIG. 25. A voltage starts to be applied to
the word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A at the time point
t2f in FIG. 25. Application of the reading voltage VCGRV to the
selected word line WL-S and application of a voltage to the word
line WLU of the upper array layer 110B are started at the time
point t3f in FIG. 25.
[0572] As mentioned above, a read operation on the memory cell of
the lower array layer 110A is performed.
[0573] As mentioned above, as illustrated in FIG. 25, even if
application of a voltage to each wiring is controlled, a release
process on residual electric charge in a semiconductor pillar of a
selected block can be performed, and thus a capacitance component
of a non-selected string unit can be reduced when data is read.
[0574] Therefore, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
improve operation characteristics in the same manner as in the
above-described embodiments.
(8) Eighth Embodiment
[0575] With reference to FIG. 26, a memory device and a control
method therefor according to an eighth embodiment will be
explained. FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating voltage waveforms of
the respective wirings during a read operation (or a verification
operation) of a flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0576] In a read operation of the flash memory using the voltage
sensing method, timings for controlling a voltage of a word line
may be different between an array layer including a selected word
line and an array layer not including the selected word line even
if data is read in a state in which the voltage VSRC is applied to
the source line SL.
Operation Example
[0577] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Upper Array Layer
[0578] With reference to FIG. 26, a read operation on a memory cell
of the upper array layer according to the voltage sensing method in
the flash memory of the present embodiment will be explained.
[0579] Time Point t11f and Time Point t12f
[0580] As illustrated in FIG. 26, in the same manner as in the
above-described example (for example, the example illustrated in
FIG. 23), at a time point t11f, potentials of the select gate lines
SGD, SGS and SGM, the bit line BL, and the source line SL (CELSRC)
start to be controlled. A potential of the source side select gate
line SGS-S of a selected string unit is set to the voltage
VSRC.
[0581] Thereafter, if the word line WLU of the upper array layer
110B is selected, at the time point t11f, a voltage starts to be
applied to the word line WLU of the upper array layer 110B. A
potential of the word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A is
maintained to be ground voltage VSS.
[0582] Since the memory cell of the lower array layer 110A is
turned off, the upper semiconductor pillar 75B is not connected to
the source line SL (CELSRC). Therefore, in the selected string
unit, a potential of the source side select gate line SGS-S may be
set to the voltage VSRC so that the select transistor ST2 is turned
off.
[0583] In a period TA, residual electric charge is released to the
bit line BL from the semiconductor pillars 75 via the turned-on
transistors.
[0584] Time Point t13f
[0585] At the time point t13f, the bit line BL starts to be
charged. A potential of the non-selected drain side select gate
line SGD-US of a non-selected string unit is reduced from the
voltage VSG to the voltage VSRC.
[0586] The reading pass voltage VREAD is applied to the word line
WLL of the lower array layer 110A. A potential of the selected word
line WL-S of the upper array layer 110B is reduced to the reading
voltage VCGRV.
[0587] Time Point t14f to Time Point t16f
[0588] After a period TB elapses, at a time point t14f, in the
selected string unit, a potential of the source side select gate
line SGS-S is increased from the voltage VSRC to the voltage VSG.
Consequently, in the selected string unit, the select transistor
ST2 is turned on, and thus the semiconductor pillar 75A is
electrically connected to the source line SL (CELSRC).
[0589] In a period TC, a state of a potential of the bit line BL is
sensed in a state in which the lower semiconductor pillar 75A of
the non-selected string unit is subject to channel boosting. Thus,
data held in the memory cell is read. In the period TC, potentials
of the select gate lines SGD-US, SGM-US and SGS-US of the
non-selected string unit are maintained to be the voltage VSRC.
[0590] Thereafter, at a time point t15f and a time point t16f,
potentials of the respective wirings are set to the ground voltage
VSS.
[0591] As mentioned above, the data read operation on the memory
cell of the upper array layer 110B is completed.
[0592] Read Operation on Lower Array Layer
[0593] If the word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A is
selected as a reading target, potentials of the bit line BL, the
source line SL (CELSRC), and the respective select gate lines SGS,
SGD and SGM are controlled in the same manner as in the example
illustrated in FIG. 24.
[0594] However, in the present embodiment, control of voltages for
the word lines WLL and WLU are different from the control in the
example illustrated in FIG. 26. A voltage starts to be applied to
the word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A at the time point
t12f in FIG. 26. Application of the voltage VCGRV to the selected
word line WL-S and application of a voltage to the word line WLU of
the upper array layer 110B are started at the time point t13f in
FIG. 26.
[0595] As mentioned above, a data read operation on the memory cell
of the lower array layer 110A is performed.
[0596] As illustrated in FIG. 26, even if application of a voltage
to each wiring is controlled, a release process on residual
electric charge in a semiconductor pillar of a selected block can
be performed, and thus a capacitance component of a non-selected
string unit and a load caused by the capacitance component can be
reduced when data is read.
[0597] Therefore, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
improve operation characteristics in the same manner as in the
above-described embodiments.
(9) Ninth Embodiment
[0598] With reference to FIGS. 27 and 28, a memory device and a
control method therefor according to a ninth embodiment will be
explained.
[0599] As illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28, the lower array layer
110A and the upper array layer 110B respectively include
intermediate select gate lines SGMU and SGML. In this case, a
potential of the intermediate select gate line SGM of the lower
array layer 110A and a potential of the intermediate select gate
line SGM of the upper array layer 110B may be controlled separately
from each other.
[0600] Hereinafter, For clarity purpose, the intermediate select
gate line of the lower array layer 110A is referred to as a lower
intermediate select gate line SGML (SGML-S or SGML-US), and the
intermediate select gate line of the upper array layer 110B is
referred to as an upper intermediate select gate line SGMU (SGMU-S
or SGMU-US).
Operation Example
[0601] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 27 and 28, an operation
example of the flash memory of the present embodiment will be
described. For example, in the present embodiment, the flash memory
performs a read operation according to the current sensing
method.
[0602] Read Operation on Upper Array Layer
[0603] FIG. 27 is a voltage waveform diagram for explaining reading
of data from a memory cell of the upper array layer in a read
operation of the flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0604] Time Point t1g
[0605] As described above, at a time point t0, the sequencer 19
starts a read operation. One of a plurality of word lines WLU of
the upper array layer 110B is set as a selected word line WL-S
based on a selection address.
[0606] As illustrated in FIG. 27, at a time point t1g, the row
control circuit 12 applies the voltage VSG to the select gate lines
SGD-S, SGS-S, SGMU-S and SGML-S of a selected string unit.
[0607] With respect to a non-selected string unit, the row control
circuit 12 applies the voltage VSG to the non-selected drain side
select gate line SGD-US, and applies the ground voltage VSS to the
non-selected source side select gate line SGS-US.
[0608] In the present embodiment, if data reading on the memory
cell of the upper array layer 110B is performed, the row control
circuit 12 applies the ground voltage VSS to the intermediate
select gate line SGMU-US of the upper array layer 110B including
the selected word line WL-S of the two intermediate select gate
lines SGMU-US and SGML-US, and applies the voltage VSG to the
intermediate select gate line SGML-US of the lower array layer
110A, with respect to each of the non-selected string units.
[0609] Consequently, in the non-selected string unit, the select
transistor ST3U connected to the intermediate select gate line
SGMU-US is turned off, and the select transistor ST3L connected to
the intermediate select gate line SGML-US is turned on. The
turned-off select transistor ST3U is included in the same array
layer 110B as the selected word line WL-S, and the turned-on
intermediate select transistor ST3L is included in the array layer
110A differently from the selected word line WL-S.
[0610] Time Point t2g to Time Point t3g
[0611] At a time point t2g, voltages start to be applied to the
word lines WLU and WLL. In a period TA, electric charges in the
semiconductor pillars 75A and 75B of the selected string unit and
electric charge in the upper semiconductor pillar 75B of the
non-selected string unit are released to the bit line BL or the
source line SL (CELSRC) via the turned-on select transistors.
[0612] At a time point t3g, the bit line BL starts to be charged.
Among the word lines WLU, the selected word line WL-S is controlled
so that a potential of the selected word line WL-S is set to the
reading voltage VCGRV.
[0613] In the non-selected string unit, a potential of the
non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US is reduced from the
voltage VSG to the ground voltage VSS.
[0614] Time Point t4g to Time Point t6g
[0615] After the potential of the selected word line WL-S reaches
the reading voltage VCGRV, at a time point t4g, a current of the
bit line BL is sensed in a state in which a part (here, the lower
semiconductor pillar 75A) of the semiconductor pillars 75 of the
non-selected string unit is subject to channel boosting. In the
present embodiment, in the same manner as in the above-described
example, a load caused by a capacitance component of the
semiconductor pillar is reduced, and thus data held in the memory
cell is determined.
[0616] Thereafter, at a time point t5g and a time point t6g,
potentials of the respective wirings are set to the ground voltage
VSS through control of the potentials of the respective
wirings.
[0617] As mentioned above, reading of data from the memory cell of
the upper array layer in the flash memory of the present embodiment
is finished.
[0618] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Lower Array Layer
[0619] FIG. 28 is a voltage waveform diagram for explaining reading
of data from a memory cell of the lower array layer in a read
operation of the flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0620] Time Point t1h
[0621] In the same manner as in the example illustrated in FIG. 27,
at a time point t0, the sequencer 19 starts a read operation. One
of a plurality of word lines WLL of the lower array layer 110A is
set as a selected word line WL-S based on a selection address.
[0622] At a time point t1h, the row control circuit 12 applies the
voltage VSG to the select gate lines SGD-S, SGS-S, SGMU-S and
SGML-S of a selected string unit.
[0623] With respect to a non-selected string unit, the ground
voltage VSS is applied to the non-selected drain side select gate
line SGD-US, and the voltage VSG is applied to the non-selected
source side select gate line SGS-US.
[0624] If data reading on the memory cell of the lower array layer
110A is performed, unlike in the example illustrated in FIG. 27,
the voltage VSG is applied to the intermediate select gate line
SGMU-US of the upper array layer 110B, and the ground voltage VSS
is applied to the intermediate select gate line SGML-US of the
lower array layer 110A including the selected word line, with
respect to each of the non-selected string units.
[0625] Consequently, in the non-selected string unit, the select
transistor ST3U of the upper array layer 110B is turned on, and the
select transistor ST3L of the lower array layer 110A is turned off.
The turned-on select transistor ST3U is included in the array layer
110B differently from the selected word line, and the turned-off
intermediate select transistor ST3L is included in the same array
layer 110A as the selected word line WL-S.
[0626] Time Point t2h to Time Point t3h
[0627] At a time point t2h, voltages start to be applied to the
word lines WLU and WLL.
[0628] In a period TA, an electric charge in the semiconductor
pillars 75 is released to the bit line BL or the source line SL
(CELSRC).
[0629] At a time point t3h, the bit line BL starts to be charged.
The selected word line WL-S of the lower array layer 110A is
controlled to be set to the reading voltage VCGRV. In the
non-selected string unit, a potential of the non-selected source
side select gate line SGS-US is reduced from the voltage VSG to the
ground voltage VSS.
[0630] Time Point t4h to Time Point t6h
[0631] After the potential of the selected word line WL-S reaches
the reading voltage VCGRV, at a time point t4h, a current of the
bit line BL is sensed. Consequently, a load caused by a capacitance
component of the semiconductor pillar is reduced, and, in this
state, data held in the memory cell is determined.
[0632] Thereafter, at a time point t5h and a time point t6h,
potentials of the respective wirings are set to the ground voltage
VSS through control of the potentials of the respective
wirings.
[0633] Consequently, reading of data on the lower array layer in
the flash memory of the present embodiment is finished.
[0634] The operations illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28 may be applied
to a verification operation.
[0635] In the present embodiment, in the read operations
illustrated in FIGS. 27 and 28, a potential of the source line SL
(CELSRC) may be set to the voltage VSRC higher than the ground
voltage VSS in the same manner as in the examples illustrated in
FIGS. 21 and 22. In the present embodiment, timings of applying a
voltage to the word lines WL may differ between the lower array
layer 110A and the upper array layer 110B according to an array
layer including the selected word line WL-S in the same manner as
in the examples illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 25.
SUMMARY
[0636] In the flash memory of the present embodiment, a plurality
of intermediate select gate lines of a string unit can be
controlled separately from each other.
[0637] In the period TA in which residual electric charge in the
semiconductor pillar is released during the read operation, among
the plurality of intermediate select gate lines of a non-selected
string unit, the ground voltage VSS is applied to the intermediate
select gate line SGML of an array layer including a selected word
line, and the voltage (a voltage for turning on the transistor ST3)
VSG is applied to the intermediate select gate line of an array
layer not including the selected word line.
[0638] The flash memory of the present embodiment can cause a
region (a region near the junction) between the two intermediate
select gate lines to be subject to channel boosting by turning on
the select transistor ST3 connected to the select gate lines SGM
corresponding to one of the two intermediate select gate lines SGML
and SGMU. Consequently, the flash memory of the present embodiment
can further reduce a load caused by a parasitic capacitance of the
semiconductor pillar.
[0639] In the junction of the stacked semiconductor pillars 75A and
75B, a distance between the lowermost conductive layer of the upper
array layer 110B and the uppermost conductive layer of the lower
array layer 110A is longer than a distance (gap) between the word
lines adjacent to each other in the same array layer. The upper end
of the semiconductor pillar is different from the lower end of the
semiconductor pillar due to a manufacturing process, and thus a
shape around the junction 999 is not uniform. Thus, a relatively
large potential gradient may easily occur near the junction 999.
There is a probability that a hot carrier may be generated in the
junction 999 due to this potential gradient.
[0640] The hot carrier generated in the junction 999 hardly reaches
an array layer including a selected word line since the transistor
ST3 connected to the select gate line SGM of the array layer 110
including the selected word line WL-S is turned off, and a length
of the junction 999 between the stacked intermediate select gate
lines SGM is relatively large.
[0641] As a result, the flash memory of the present embodiment can
prevent hot carrier generation type reading disturbance.
[0642] As mentioned above, the flash memory of the present
embodiment can improve operation characteristics.
(10) Tenth Embodiment
[0643] With reference to FIGS. 29 and 30, a memory device and a
control method therefor according to a tenth embodiment will be
explained.
[0644] In the flash memory performing a read operation using the
voltage sensing method, the intermediate select gate line SGMU of
the upper array layer 110B and the intermediate select gate line
SGML of the lower array layer 110A may be controlled separately
from each other.
Operation Example
[0645] Read Operation on Upper Array Layer
[0646] FIG. 29 is a voltage waveform diagram for explaining reading
of data from a memory cell of the upper array layer in a read
operation of the flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0647] Time Point t11g
[0648] As illustrated in FIG. 28, when a read operation is started
(time point t0), a word line WLU of the upper array layer 110B is
set as a selected word line WL-S based on a selection address.
[0649] At a time point t11g, the row control circuit 12 applies the
voltage VSG to the select gate lines SGD-S, SGS-S, SGMU-S and
SGML-S of a selected string unit.
[0650] With respect to a non-selected string unit, the voltage VSG
is applied to the non-selected drain side select gate line SGD-US,
and the ground voltage VSS is applied to the non-selected source
side select gate line SGS-US.
[0651] In the present embodiment, with respect to the non-selected
string unit, the ground voltage VSS is applied to the intermediate
select gate line SGMU-US of the upper array layer 110B, and the
voltage VSG is applied to the intermediate select gate line SGML-US
of the lower array layer 110A.
[0652] Consequently, in the non-selected string unit, the select
transistor ST3U of the array layer 110A including the selected word
line WL-S is turned off, and the select transistor ST3L of the
array layer 110B not including the selected word line WL-S is
turned on.
[0653] Time Point t12g to Time Point t13g
[0654] At a time point t12g, voltages start to be applied to the
word lines WLU and WLL.
[0655] After electric charge is released in a period TA, at a time
point t13g, the bit line BL starts to be charged. The selected word
line WL-S of the upper array layer 110B is controlled so that a
potential of the selected word line WL-S is set to the reading
voltage VCGRV. A potential of the source side select gate line
SGS-S is reduced from the voltage VSG to the ground voltage
VSS.
[0656] In the non-selected string unit, a potential of the drain
side select gate line SGD-US is reduced from the voltage VSG to the
ground voltage VSS. A potential of the intermediate select gate
line SGML-US is maintained to be the voltage VSG.
Time Point t14g to Time Point t16g
[0657] After the potential of the selected word line WL-S reaches
the reading voltage VCGRV, at a time point t14g, the voltage VSG is
applied to the source side select gate line SGS-S in the selected
string unit. The lower semiconductor pillar 75A is applied to the
source line SL (CELSRC) via the turned-on select transistor ST2. A
potential of the bit line BL is sensed. As mentioned above, data
held in the memory cell is determined in a state in which the lower
semiconductor pillar 75A of the non-selected string unit is subject
to channel boosting.
[0658] Thereafter, in the same manner as in the above-described
operation examples, at a time point t15g and a time point t16g,
potentials of the respective wirings are set to the ground voltage
VSS through control of the potentials of the respective
wirings.
[0659] As mentioned above, reading of data from the memory cell of
the upper array layer 110B in the flash memory of the present
embodiment is finished.
[0660] Read Operation on Memory Cell of Lower Array Layer
[0661] FIG. 30 is a voltage waveform diagram for explaining reading
of data from a memory cell of the lower array layer 110A in a read
operation of the flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0662] Time Point t11h
[0663] In the same manner as in the example illustrated in FIG. 29,
at a time point t0, a word line WLL of the lower array layer 110A
is set as a selected word line WL-S based on a selection
address.
[0664] At a time point t11h, the voltage VSG is applied to the
select gate lines SGD-S, SGS-S, SGMU-S and SGML-S of a selected
string unit.
[0665] With respect to a non-selected string unit, the ground
voltage VSS is applied to the drain side select gate line SGD-US,
and the voltage VSG is applied to the non-selected source side
select gate line SGS-US. If data reading on the memory cell of the
lower array layer 110A is performed, unlike in the example
illustrated in FIG. 29, the voltage VSG is applied to the
intermediate select gate line SGMU-US, and the ground voltage VSS
is applied to the intermediate select gate line SGML-US, with
respect to each of the non-selected string units.
[0666] Consequently, in the non-selected string unit, the select
transistor ST3U of the upper array layer 110B is turned on, and the
select transistor ST3L of the lower array layer 110A including the
selected word line WL-S is turned off.
[0667] Time Point t12h to Time Point t13h
[0668] At a time point t12h, voltages start to be applied to the
word lines WLU and WLL.
[0669] After residual electric charge in the semiconductor pillars
is released, at a time point t13h, the bit line BL starts to be
charged, and the selected word line WL-S of the lower array layer
110A is controlled to be set to the reading voltage VCGRV.
[0670] In the selected and non-selected string units, potentials of
the source side select gate lines SGS-S and SGS-US are set to the
ground voltage VSS.
[0671] Time Point t14h to Time Point t16h
[0672] At a time point t14h, the potential of the selected word
line WL-S reaches the reading voltage VCGRV, and then a potential
of the source side select gate line SGS-S is set to the voltage
VSG.
[0673] A potential of the bit line BL is sensed in a state in which
the upper semiconductor pillar 75B of the non-selected string unit
is subject to the channel boosting. Consequently, data held in the
memory cell is determined.
[0674] Thereafter, at a time point t15h and a time point t16h,
potentials of the respective wirings are set to the ground voltage
VSS through control of the potentials of the respective
wirings.
[0675] Consequently, reading of data on the lower array layer in
the flash memory of the present embodiment is finished.
[0676] As in the present embodiment, even if the flash memory
performs a read operation using the voltage sensing method, the
flash memory of the present embodiment can achieve the same effect
as the effect in the ninth embodiment.
[0677] The control of a timing of enabling a non-selected word line
as in FIGS. 20 and 26, and the control of a potential of the source
line as in FIGS. 23 and 24 may be applied to the flash memory of
the present embodiment.
(11) Modification Examples
[0678] With reference to FIGS. 31 to 34, modification examples of
the memory devices and the control methods therefor according to
the embodiments will be explained.
(a) Modification Example 1
Structure Example
[0679] FIG. 31 is a schematic sectional view for explaining a
structure of a flash memory according to a modification example of
the embodiments.
[0680] As illustrated in FIG. 31, in a memory cell array of the
flash memory according to the modification example, a block may
include three or more array layers 110A, 110B and 110X.
[0681] The three array layers 110A, 110B and 110X are stacked in a
vertical direction to a surface of a substrate. The array layer
110X provided between the lower array layer 110A and the upper
array layer 110B will be referred to as an intermediate array layer
110X.
[0682] The intermediate array layer 110X includes a plurality of
semiconductor pillars (hereinafter, referred to as intermediate
semiconductor pillars) 75X. A lower end of the semiconductor pillar
75X comes into contact with the upper end of the lower
semiconductor pillar 75A, and an upper end of the semiconductor
pillar 75X comes into contact with the lower end of the upper
semiconductor pillar 75B.
[0683] For example, the intermediate array layer 110X includes
intermediate select gate lines SGM0b and SGM1b on an upper part
(upper array layer side) in the intermediate array layer 110X, and
includes intermediate select gate lines SGM0c and SGM1c on a lower
part (lower array layer side) in the intermediate array layer
110X.
[0684] The intermediate select gate lines SGM0b and SGM1b are
provided in a boundary region between the upper array layer 110B
and the intermediate array layer 110X. The intermediate select gate
lines SGM0c and SGM1c are provided in a boundary region between the
lower array layer 110A and the intermediate array layer 110X.
[0685] In the intermediate array layer 110X, conductive layers 71
between the intermediate select gate lines SGM0b and SGM0c function
like word lines WL. Conductive layers 71 between the intermediate
select gate lines SGM1b and SGM1c also function like word lines WL.
Some of the word lines WL of the intermediate array layer 110X may
be used as dummy word lines.
[0686] Hereinafter, the intermediate select gate lines SGM of the
upper array layer 110B are referred to as intermediate select gate
lines SGM0a and SGM1a. The intermediate select gate lines SGM of
the lower array layer 110A are referred to as intermediate select
gate lines SGM0d and SGM1d.
[0687] In the respective string units SU, potentials of the
intermediate select gate lines SGM of the array layers 110A, 110B
and 110X can be controlled separately from each other.
Consequently, electrical connection between the intermediate array
layer 110X and the upper array layer 110B, and electrical
connection between the intermediate array layer 110X and the upper
array layer 110B can be controlled separately from each other.
Operation Example
[0688] With reference to FIGS. 31 and 32, a description will be
made of an operation example of the flash memory of the present
modification example. FIGS. 31 and 32 are diagrams schematically
illustrating an operation example of the flash memory of the
present modification example. In this example, timings of
controlling potentials of respective wirings in a read operation of
the flash memory are substantially the same as the timings in the
operation examples described in the first to tenth embodiments.
Here, a description will be made of a relationship between
potentials of the respective intermediate select gate lines SGM in
the above-described read operation period (electric charge release
period) TA in the flash memory.
[0689] FIG. 31 schematically illustrates a relationship between the
respective intermediate select gate lines SGM in a read operation
if the word line WL of the upper array layer 110B is selected. In
FIG. 31, the string unit SU0 is selected an operation target.
[0690] As illustrated in FIG. 31, in the period TA from starting of
control of potentials of the select gate lines to starting of
application of a reading voltage to the selected word line WL-S,
the voltage VSG having an "H" level are applied to the respective
select gate lines SGD0, SGS0 and SGM0 (SGM0a to SGM0d) of the
selected string unit SU0, and thus the select transistors ST1, ST2
and ST3 are turned on.
[0691] In the period TA, in the non-selected string units SU2 and
SU3, the voltage VSG is applied to the drain side select gate lines
SGD2 and SGD3, and thus the select transistors ST1 are turned on.
Consequently, electric charge in the semiconductor pillars 75B of
the upper array layer 110B is released to bit lines (not
illustrated). As a result, reading disturbance is reduced.
[0692] At this time, in the non-selected string units SU2 and SU3,
the ground voltage VSS having an "L" level is applied to the
intermediate select gate lines SGM1a, SGM1b, SGM1c and SGM1d, and
thus the select transistors ST3 are turned off.
[0693] Consequently, the semiconductor pillars 75A and 75X of the
lower array layer 110A and the intermediate array layer 110X are
electrically separated from the semiconductor pillars 75B of the
upper array layer 110B, the bit lines BL, and the source line SL
(CELSRC).
[0694] Therefore, when data is read from memory cells of the upper
array layer 110B, the semiconductor pillars 75X of a portion 99X of
the intermediate array layer 110X and the semiconductor pillars 75A
of a portion 99A of the lower array layer 110A are subject to
channel boosting.
[0695] Consequently, loads caused by capacitance components of the
upper and intermediate semiconductor pillars 75A and 75X are
reduced.
[0696] Data is read from memory cells of the intermediate array
layer 110X and the lower array layer 110A through control similar
thereto as follows.
[0697] FIG. 32A schematically illustrates a relationship between
potentials of the respective intermediate select gate lines SGM
during a read operation if a word line WL of the intermediate array
layer 110X is selected.
[0698] In the period TA, the voltage VSG having an "H" level is
applied to the intermediate select gate lines SGM1a and SGM1b in
the non-selected string units SU2 and SU3. Consequently, in the
non-selected string units, not only the upper semiconductor pillars
75B but also the intermediate semiconductor pillars 75X are
electrically connected to the bit lines (not illustrated).
Consequently, electric charge in the intermediate semiconductor
pillars 75X is released to the bit lines BL. As a result, reading
disturbance is reduced.
[0699] In this case, when data is read from memory cells of the
intermediate array layer 110X, in the non-selected string units,
semiconductor pillars 75A of the portion 99A of the lower array
layer 110A are subject to channel boosting, and thus loads caused
by capacitance components of the lower semiconductor pillars 75A
are reduced.
[0700] If the ground voltage VSS having an "L" level is applied to
the intermediate select gate line SGM1d of the lower array layer
110A, the voltage VSG having an "H" level may be applied to the
intermediate select gate line SGM1c.
[0701] Alternatively, in order to release electric charge in the
semiconductor pillars 75X of the intermediate array layer 110X in
the non-selected string units, the ground voltage VSS may be
applied to the intermediate select gate line SGM1b on the upper
array layer 110B side, and the voltage VSG may be applied to the
intermediate select gate line SGM1c on the lower array layer 110A
side. In this case, in the non-selected string units, the voltage
VSG is applied to the intermediate select gate line SGM1d and the
source side select gate line SGS1 of the lower array layer 110A,
and the ground voltage VSS is applied to the drain side select gate
lines SGM2 and SGM3 of the upper array layer 110B.
[0702] Consequently, electric charge in the semiconductor pillars
75X of the intermediate array layer 110X is released to the source
line (not illustrated) via the semiconductor pillars 75A of the
lower array layer 110A.
[0703] FIG. 32B schematically illustrates a relationship between
potentials of the respective intermediate select gate lines SGM
during a read operation if a word line WL of the lower array layer
110A is selected.
[0704] In the period TA, the ground voltage VSS is applied to the
drain side select gate lines SGD1, SGD2 and SGD3, and the voltage
VSG is applied to the source side select gate lines SGS0 and SGS1,
in the non-selected string units SU2 and SU3. Consequently, the
semiconductor pillars 75 of the non-selected string units are
electrically separated from the bit lines, and are electrically
connected to the source line.
[0705] The ground voltage VSS having an "L" level is applied to the
non-selected intermediate select gate lines SGM1a, SGM1b, SGM1c and
SGM1d. Consequently, in the non-selected string unit, the
semiconductor pillars 75B and 75X of the upper array layer 110B and
the intermediate array layer 110X are electrically separated from
the semiconductor pillars 75A of the lower array layer 110A.
[0706] Therefore, electric charge in the lower semiconductor
pillars 75A is released to the source line, and thus reading
disturbance is reduced.
[0707] When data is read from the memory cells of the lower array
layer 110A, the semiconductor pillars 75B of the portion 99B of the
upper array layer 110B and the semiconductor pillars 75X of the
portion 99X of the intermediate array layer 110X are subject to
channel boosting. As a result, loads caused by capacitance
components of the lower and intermediate semiconductor pillars 75A
and 75X are reduced.
[0708] As in FIG. 32B, in order to release electric charge in the
semiconductor pillars 75X of the intermediate array layer 110X, the
voltage VSG having an "H" level may be applied to the intermediate
select gate lines SGM1c and SGM1d. In this case, the occurrence of
reading disturbance is further reduced.
[0709] As in the present modification example, even if the memory
cell array 11 includes three array layers, some of the
semiconductor pillars of the non-selected string units in the
selected block BK can be caused to be subject to channel boosting.
Therefore, reading disturbance can be reduced, and a capacitance
component during a read operation (or a verification operation) can
also be reduced.
[0710] Therefore, the flash memory of the present modification
example can reduce power consumption and can thus suppress a
decrease in an operation speed.
(b) Modification Example 2
[0711] FIG. 33 is a diagram for explaining a structure of a flash
memory according to a modification example of the embodiments. FIG.
33 illustrates a sectional structure of the flash memory according
to the present modification example.
[0712] As illustrated in FIG. 33, the select gate lines SGD, SGS
and SGM, the word lines WL, and the string units SU may be
separately provided in each of the string units SU. The source line
contact CELSRC is provided between the string units. The respective
string units SU do not share the select gate lines SGD, SGS and
SGM.
[0713] In the example illustrated in FIG. 33, a single string unit
corresponds to a single area FNG.
[0714] Even if the flash memory includes blocks having the
structure illustrated in FIG. 33, the flash memory can perform each
operation example described in the first to tenth embodiments.
(c) Modification Example 3
[0715] FIGS. 34A to 34F are diagrams for explaining a structure of
a flash memory according to a modification example of the
embodiments.
[0716] FIGS. 34A to 34F illustrate modification examples of a
structure of a string unit including intermediate select gate lines
in the flash memory of the present embodiment.
[0717] As illustrated in FIG. 34A, an intermediate select gate line
SGM of the upper array layer 110B and an intermediate select gate
line SGM of the lower array layer 110A may be provided between a
dummy word line DWLA of the lower array layer 110A and a dummy word
line DWLB of the upper array layer 110B in the D3 direction.
[0718] As illustrated in FIG. 34B, in each of the array layers 110A
and 110B, an intermediate select gate line SGM may be provided
between two dummy word lines DWL in the D3 direction.
[0719] As illustrated in FIG. 34C, an array layer not including an
intermediate select gate line SGM may be provided in a block
(memory cell array).
[0720] For example, in FIG. 34C, the upper array layer 110B
includes the intermediate select gate line SGM, and the lower array
layer 110A does not include the intermediate select gate line. The
intermediate select gate line SGM is provided between a dummy word
line DWL of the upper array layer 110B and a dummy word line DWL of
the lower array layer 110A in the D3 direction.
[0721] As illustrated in FIG. 34D, the upper array layer 110B does
not include an intermediate select gate line SGM, and the lower
array layer 110A includes the intermediate select gate line
SGM.
[0722] As illustrated in FIGS. 34E and 34F, in an array layer
including an intermediate select gate line SGM, the intermediate
select gate line SGM may be provided between two dummy word lines
of the array layer.
[0723] As mentioned above, positions of the intermediate select
gate lines SGM in the string unit, and layouts of the intermediate
select gate lines SGM and the dummy word lines DWL may be changed
as appropriate. Any one of FIGS. 34A to 34F illustrating the
structures of the NAND string 111 may be applied to the flash
memories of the first to tenth embodiments.
[0724] During a read operation of the flash memory, reading
disturbance in a non-selected string unit may be reduced not only
by electrically separating the stacked array layers 110A and 110B
from each other using the intermediate select gate lines SGM but
also by applying a voltage Vx lower than the voltage VSG to the
dummy word lines DWL. The voltage Vx is higher than the ground
voltage VSS.
[0725] In this case, in the same manner as the drain side select
gate lines SGM or the intermediate select gate lines SGM, the dummy
word lines DWL are electrically separated from each other for each
string unit or every two string units.
(12) Others
[0726] If a flash memory used in the memory system of the present
embodiment is a multi-value flash memory, a read operation of the
multi-value flash memory includes the following determination
voltages.
[0727] A determination voltage applied to a selected word line in a
read operation at the A level is in a range of, for example, 0 V to
0.55 V. However, a determination voltage for the A level is not
limited to the range, and may be any one of the ranges of 0.1 V to
0.24 V, 0.21 V to 0.31 V, 0.31 V to 0.4 V, 0.4 V to 0.5 V, and 0.5
V to 0.55 V.
[0728] A determination voltage applied to a selected word line in a
read operation at the B level is in a range of, for example, 1.5 V
to 2.3 V. However, a determination voltage for the B level is not
limited to the range, and may be any one of the ranges of 1.65 V to
1.8 V, 1.8 V to 1.95 V, 1.95 V to 2.1 V, and 2.1 V to 2.3 V.
[0729] A determination voltage applied to a selected word line in a
read operation at the C level is in a range of, for example, 3.0 V
to 4.0 V. However, a determination voltage for the C level is not
limited to the range, and may be any one of the ranges of 3.0 V to
3.2 V, 3.2 V to 3.4 V, 3.4 V to 3.5V, 3.5 V to 3.6 V, and 3.6 V to
4.0 V.
[0730] A period (tR) of a read operation may be any one of, for
example, 25 .mu.s to 38 .mu.s, 38 .mu.s to 70 .mu.s, and 70 .mu.s
to 80 .mu.s.
[0731] A write operation of the multi-value flash memory includes a
program operation and a verification operation.
[0732] In the write operation of the multi-value flash memory, a
voltage which is initially applied to a selected word line during
the program operation is in a range of, for example, 13.7 V to 14.3
V. The voltage is not limited to this range, and may be either one
of, for example, 13.7 V to 14.0 V and 14.0 V to 14.6 V.
[0733] If the program operation is performed according to an
incremental step pulse program (ISPP) method, a step-up voltage is,
for example, about 0.5 V.
[0734] A non-selection voltage (pass voltage) applied to a
non-selected word line has a value in a range of, for example, 6.0
V to 7.3 V. However, a non-selection voltage is not limited to this
value, and may have a value in a range of, for example, 7.3 V to
8.4 V, and may be equal to or less than 6.0 V.
[0735] A pass voltage to be applied may be changed depending on
whether a non-selected word line is an odd-numbered word line or an
even-numbered word line.
[0736] A period (tProg) of a write operation may be any one of, for
example, 1700 .mu.s to 1800 .mu.s, 1800 .mu.s to 1900 .mu.s, and
1900 .mu.s to 2000 .mu.s.
[0737] In an erasing operation of the multi-value flash memory, a
voltage applied to a well region which is formed on an upper part
in a semiconductor substrate and above which a memory cell is
disposed has a value in a range of, for example, 12 V to 13.6 V.
The voltage is not limited to this value, and may have a value in
any one of ranges, for example, 13.6 V to 14.8 V, 14.8 V to 19.0 V,
19.0 V to 19.8 V, and 19.8 V to 21 V.
[0738] A period (tErase) of the erasing operation may be one of
ranges of, for example, 3000 .mu.s to 4000 .mu.s, 4000 .mu.s to
5000 .mu.s, and 4000 .mu.s to 9000 .mu.s.
[0739] The memory cell has the charge storage layer which is
disposed on the side surface of the semiconductor pillar via the
tunnel insulating film of 4 nm to 10 nm. The charge storage layer
has a structure in which an insulating film (for example, SiN or
SiON) having a film thickness of 2 nm to 3 nm, and polysilicon
having a film thickness of 3 nm to 8 nm are laminated. Polysilicon
may contain a metal such as Ru.
[0740] The insulating film is formed on the charge storage layer.
The insulating film includes a lower-layer high-k film having a
thickness of 3 nm to 10 nm, an upper-layer high-k film having a
thickness of 3 nm to 10 nm, and a silicon oxide film having a
thickness of 4 to 10 nm. The high-k film may be an HfO film. A
thickness of the silicon oxide film may be larger than a thickness
of the high-k film.
[0741] A control gate electrode having a film thickness of 30 nm to
70 nm is provided on the insulating film via a material having a
film thickness of 3 nm to 10 nm. Such a material is a metal oxide
film such as TaO, or a metal nitride film such as TaN. The control
gate electrode may be a metal such as tungsten (W).
[0742] An air gap may be provided between the memory cells.
[0743] While certain embodiments have been described, these
embodiments have been presented by way of example only, and are not
intended to limit the scope of the inventions. Indeed, the novel
embodiments described herein may be embodied in a variety of other
forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions and changes in
the form of the embodiments described herein may be made without
departing from the spirit of the inventions. The accompanying
claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or
modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of the
inventions.
* * * * *