U.S. patent application number 16/261617 was filed with the patent office on 2020-07-30 for resistive nonvolatile memory structure employing a statistical sensing scheme and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to GLOBALFOUNDRIES INC.. The applicant listed for this patent is GLOBALFOUNDRIES INC.. Invention is credited to Amogh Agrawal, Ajey Poovannummoottil Jacob.
Application Number | 20200243126 16/261617 |
Document ID | 20200243126 / US20200243126 |
Family ID | 1000004954566 |
Filed Date | 2020-07-30 |
Patent Application | download [pdf] |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200243126 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jacob; Ajey Poovannummoottil ;
et al. |
July 30, 2020 |
RESISTIVE NONVOLATILE MEMORY STRUCTURE EMPLOYING A STATISTICAL
SENSING SCHEME AND METHOD
Abstract
A memory structure includes a first memory array with two
transistor-two variable resistor memory cells and a second memory
array with one transistor-one variable resistor memory cells, which
are each selectively operable in read, write and standby modes. The
first memory array and the second memory array are interleaved so
that, when the second memory operates in the read mode, the first
memory array automatically and concurrently operates in a reference
mode. A method of operating the memory structure includes, when the
second memory array operates in the read mode, automatically and
concurrently operating the first memory array in the reference mode
so that the first memory array generates and outputs a statistical
reference voltage, which is between the low and high voltages of a
nominal memory cell within the second memory array and which is
employed by the second memory array to sense a stored data
value.
Inventors: |
Jacob; Ajey Poovannummoottil;
(Watervliet, NY) ; Agrawal; Amogh; (West
Lafayette, NY) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GLOBALFOUNDRIES INC. |
Grand Cayman |
|
KY |
|
|
Assignee: |
GLOBALFOUNDRIES INC.
Grand Cayman
KY
|
Family ID: |
1000004954566 |
Appl. No.: |
16/261617 |
Filed: |
January 30, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G11C 13/0004 20130101;
G11C 11/1659 20130101; G11C 11/1657 20130101; G11C 2213/79
20130101; G11C 13/004 20130101; G11C 11/1655 20130101; G11C 11/1673
20130101 |
International
Class: |
G11C 11/16 20060101
G11C011/16; G11C 13/00 20060101 G11C013/00 |
Claims
1. A nonvolatile memory structure comprising: a first memory array
comprising: first memory cells arranged in columns and rows; and
word lines for the rows of the first memory cells, respectively,
wherein the first memory cells comprise two transistor-two variable
resistor memory cells and wherein each word line for each row of
the first memory cells is connected to all transistor gates of all
two transistor-two variable resistor memory cells in the row; and a
second memory array comprising second memory cells with each second
memory cell comprising a one transistor-one variable resistor
memory cell, wherein the first memory array and the second memory
array concurrently operate in a reference mode and a read mode,
respectively, with the first memory array generating a reference
voltage and the second memory array employing the reference voltage
to sense a data value stored in a selected second memory cell.
2. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 1, wherein the
reference voltage is dependent on data values stored in the first
memory cells.
3. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 1, wherein the first
memory cells and the second memory cells comprise any of: spin
transfer torque-magnetic random access memory cells with magnetic
tunnel junction-type variable resistors; phase change memory cells
with phase change material layer-type variable resistors; and
resistive random access memory cells with memristor-type variable
resistors, and wherein low and high resistance states of variable
resistors in the first memory cells and the second memory cells
vary due to random process and thermal variations.
4. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 1, wherein operation
of the first memory array in the reference mode is triggered by
switching of a reference mode signal from a first level to a second
level, wherein the reference mode signal controls a plurality of
switch interconnects within the first memory array, and wherein,
when the reference mode signal is at the second level, the switch
interconnects cause at least some of the first memory cells in the
first memory array to be electrically connected in a
series-parallel resistor network that generates the reference
voltage and further cause the series-parallel resistor network to
be electrically connected to a sense circuit in the second memory
array.
5. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 4, wherein the
reference voltage generated by the series-parallel resistor network
is a statistical reference voltage that is proportional to an
average resistance across all of the first memory cells within the
series-parallel resistor network, and wherein, due to placement of
the switch interconnects within the first memory array, the average
resistance is dependent on data values stored in the first memory
cells and falls within a total resistance range having a minimum
value that is above a low resistance state of a variable resistor
of a nominal second memory cell and a maximum value that is below a
high resistance state of the variable resistor of the nominal
second memory cell such that the reference voltage is
data-dependent.
6. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 5, wherein each column
in the first memory array comprises a bit line, a source line, an
additional source line, an additional bit line, and multiple two
transistor-two variable resistor memory cells, each comprising: a
transistor-variable resistor device connected in series between the
source line and the bit line and an additional transistor-variable
resistor device connected in series between the additional source
line and the additional bit line.
7. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 6, wherein, upon
receiving the reference mode signal at the second level, the switch
interconnects electrically connect word lines of at least two
consecutive rows, electrically connect the source line to the
additional source line within each column of at least two
consecutive columns, and electrically connect adjacent bit lines of
adjacent columns of the at least two consecutive columns.
8. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 5, wherein each column
in the first memory array comprises a bit line, a common source
line, an additional bit line, and multiple two transistor-two
variable resistor memory cells, each comprising: a
transistor-variable resistor device connected in series between the
common source line and the bit line and an additional
transistor-variable resistor device connected in series between the
common source line and the additional bit line.
9. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 8, wherein, upon
receiving the reference mode signal at the second level, the switch
interconnects electrically connect word lines of at least two
consecutive rows and electrically connect adjacent bit lines of
adjacent columns of at least two consecutive columns.
10. A nonvolatile memory structure comprising: a first memory array
comprising: first memory cells arranged in columns and rows; and
word lines for the rows of the first memory cells, respectively,
wherein the first memory cells comprise two transistor-two variable
resistor memory cells and wherein each word line for each row of
the first memory cells is connected to all transistor gates of all
two transistor-two variable resistor memory cells in the row; and a
second memory array comprising second memory cells arranged in
columns and rows, with each second memory cell comprising a one
transistor-one variable resistor memory cell, wherein the first
memory array and the second memory array concurrently operate in a
reference mode and a read mode, respectively, with the first memory
array generating and outputting a reference voltage to the second
memory array and the second memory array employing the reference
voltage to sense a data value stored in a selected second memory
cell, and wherein the reference voltage is independent of data
values stored in the first memory cells and constant.
11. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 10, wherein the first
memory cells and the second memory cells comprise any of: spin
transfer torque-magnetic random access memory cells with magnetic
tunnel junction-type variable resistors; phase change memory cells
with phase change material layer-type variable resistors; and
resistive random access memory cells with memristor-type variable
resistors, and wherein low and high resistance states of variable
resistors in the first memory cells and the second memory cells
vary due to random process and thermal variations.
12. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 10, wherein operation
of the first memory array in the reference mode is triggered by
switching of a reference mode signal from a first level to a second
level, wherein the reference mode signal controls a plurality of
switch interconnects within the first memory array, wherein, when
the reference mode signal is at the second level, the switch
interconnects cause at least some of the first memory cells in the
first memory array to be electrically connected in a
series-parallel resistor network that generates the reference
voltage and further cause the series-parallel resistor network to
be electrically connected to a sense circuit in the second memory
array, wherein the reference voltage generated by the
series-parallel resistor network is a statistical reference voltage
that is proportional to an average resistance across all first
memory cells within the series-parallel resistor network, and
wherein, due to placement of the switch interconnects within the
first memory array, the average resistance is independent of data
values stored in the first memory cells and has a fixed value at a
midpoint between a low resistance state of a variable resistor in a
nominal second memory cell and a high resistance state of the
variable resistor in the nominal second memory cell such that the
reference voltage is data-independent.
13. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 12, wherein each
column in the first memory array comprises a bit line, a common
source line, and an additional bit line, and multiple two
transistor-two variable resistor memory cells, each comprising: a
transistor-variable resistor device connected in series between the
common source line and the bit line and an additional
transistor-variable resistor device connected in series between the
common source line and the additional bit line.
14. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 13, wherein the
columns in the first memory array include sets of columns with each
set having an initial bit line connected to a common node that is
selectively connectable by one of the switch interconnects to the
sense circuit of the second memory array and a last additional bit
line connected to ground, and wherein, upon receiving the reference
mode signal at the second level, the switch interconnects
electrically connect adjacent bit lines of adjacent columns within
each of the sets of columns.
15. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 14, wherein the first
memory array comprises a first predetermined number of the sets of
columns with each set comprising a second predetermined number of
columns that is equal to the first predetermined number divided by
two.
16. The nonvolatile memory structure of claim 13, wherein, upon
receiving the reference mode signal at the second level, the switch
interconnects electrically connect word lines of consecutive rows,
electrically connect the common source line of one column to the
bit line of another column for each pair of adjacent columns and
further electrically connect the bit line and the additional bit
line within each column.
17. A method comprising: operating a first memory array in a
reference mode such that the first memory array generates and
outputs a reference voltage, wherein the first memory array
comprises first memory cells arranged in columns and rows; and word
lines for the rows of the first memory cells, respectively, wherein
the first memory cells comprise two transistor-two variable
resistor memory cells and wherein each word line for each row of
the first memory cells is connected to all transistor gates of all
two transistor-two variable resistor memory cells in the row; and
concurrently operating a second memory array in a read mode,
wherein the second memory array comprises second memory cells with
each second memory cell comprising a one transistor-one variable
resistor memory cell and wherein the concurrently operating of the
second memory array in the read mode is performed such that the
second memory array receives the reference voltage from the first
memory array and employs the reference voltage to sense a data
value stored in a selected second memory cell.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising triggering operation
of the first memory array in the reference mode by automatically
switching a reference mode signal from a first level to a second
level when the second memory array switches to the read mode,
wherein the reference mode signal controls a plurality of switch
interconnects within the first memory array, wherein, when the
reference mode signal is at the second level, the switch
interconnects cause at least some of the first memory cells in the
first memory array to be electrically connected in a
series-parallel resistor network that generates the reference
voltage and further cause the series-parallel resistor network to
be electrically connected to a sense circuit in the second memory
array, and wherein the reference voltage generated by the
series-parallel resistor network is a statistical reference voltage
that is proportional to an average resistance across all first
memory cells within the series-parallel resistor network.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the first memory cells and the
second memory cells comprise any of: spin transfer torque-magnetic
random access memory cells with magnetic tunnel junction-type
variable resistors; phase change memory cells with phase change
material layer-type variable resistors; and resistive random access
memory cells with memristor-type variable resistors, and wherein
low and high resistance states of variable resistors in the first
memory cells and the second memory cells vary due to random process
and thermal variations, and wherein, due to placement of the switch
interconnects within the first memory array, the average resistance
is dependent on data values stored in the first memory cells and
falls with a total resistance range having a minimum value that is
above a low resistance state of a variable resistor of a nominal
second memory cell and a maximum value that is below a high
resistance state of the variable resistor of the nominal second
memory cell such that the reference voltage is data-dependent.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the first memory cells and the
second memory cells comprise any of: spin transfer torque-magnetic
random access memory cells with magnetic tunnel junction-type
variable resistors; phase change memory cells with phase change
material layer-type variable resistors; and resistive random access
memory cells with memristor-type variable resistors, and wherein
low and high resistance states of variable resistors in the first
memory cells and the second memory cells vary due to random process
and thermal variations, and wherein, due to placement of the switch
interconnects within the first memory array, the average resistance
is independent of data values stored in the first memory cells and
has a fixed value at a midpoint between a low resistance state of a
variable resistor of a nominal second memory cell and a high
resistance state of the variable resistor of the nominal second
memory cell such that the reference voltage is data-independent and
constant.
Description
BACKGROUND
Field of the Invention
[0001] The present invention relates to resistive nonvolatile
memory (NVM) arrays, such as spin transfer torque-magnetic random
access memory (STT-MRAM) arrays or other resistive NVM arrays, and
the sensing schemes employed by them during read operations.
Description of Related Art
[0002] Resistive nonvolatile memory (NVM) structures are currently
being considered by integrated circuit designers as suitable
replacements for other on-chip memory arrays because of advantages
such as high speed, low power consumption, non-volatility and
potentially low area consumption.
[0003] A spin transfer torque-magnetic random access memory
(STT-MRAM) array is an exemplary resistive NVM array. A STT-MRAM
array includes STT-MRAM cells arranged in columns and rows. The
simplest STT-MRAM cell includes a single field effect transistor
(FET) (e.g., an n-type field effect transistor (NFET)) and a single
variable resistor and, particularly, a single magnetic tunnel
junction (MTJ). The FET and MTJ are connected in series between a
source line and a bit line with the gate of the FET controlled by
the state of a word line. A MTJ is a multi-layer structure, which
includes a fixed ferromagnetic layer (also referred to as a pinned
layer) and a switchable ferromagnetic layer (also referred to as a
free layer) separated by a thin dielectric layer (e.g., a thin
oxide layer).
[0004] Depending upon the biasing conditions employed during a
write operation, the MTJ-type variable resistor will exhibit either
a low resistance (Rl) or a high resistance (Rh). More specifically,
during a write operation, a high voltage (VDD) can be applied to
the word line and the bit line. The source line can be connected to
ground. In this case, current flows from the bit line toward the
source line such that the free layer switches to (or maintains) a
parallel state (also referred to as a low resistance state),
thereby storing a logic value of "0" in the STT-MRAM cell.
Alternatively, VDD can be applied to the word line and the source
line and the bit line can be connected to ground. In this case,
current flows from the source line toward the bit line such that
the free layer switches to (or maintains) the anti-parallel state
(also referred to as a high resistance state), thereby storing a
logic value "1" in the STT-MRAM cell.
[0005] During a read operation, VDD is applied to the word line, a
low positive voltage (VREAD) is applied to the bit line and the
source line is connected to ground. In this case, the parallel/low
resistance state (e.g., a logic "0") will be indicated by a low
voltage on the bit line and an anti-parallel/high resistance state
(e.g., a logic "1") will be indicated by a high voltage on the bit
line. To detect whether there is a low voltage or a high voltage on
the bit line, a sense amplifier (SA) is employed to compare the
voltage (VDATA) on the bit line to a reference voltage (VREF),
which is supplied by a reference cell. The reference cell is
designed to generate a VREF that is between the low voltage and the
high voltage. However, with current technologies, the range between
the low voltage and the high voltage is relatively small and
designing a reference cell that can reliably produce a VREF between
the low voltage and the high voltage can be challenging
particularly given inherent process and thermal variations.
[0006] More complex STT-MRAM arrays with, for example, more complex
STT-MRAM cells (e.g., two transistor-two MTJ memory cells) have
been developed to eliminate the requirement for separate reference
cell(s) and minimize read errors. However, the increased complexity
and larger STT-MRAM cell size in such arrays result in a
significantly larger amount of chip area consumed.
[0007] Other resistive NVM arrays, which similarly include memory
cells with variable resistors that can be programmed during a write
operation to exhibit either a low resistance or a high resistance
and which similarly suffer from sensing challenges, are also known
in the art. These other resistive NVM arrays include, for example,
phase change random access memory (PCRAM) arrays and resistive
random access memory (RRAM) arrays.
SUMMARY
[0008] In view of the foregoing, disclosed herein are embodiments
of a resistive nonvolatile memory (NVM) structure with multiple
resistive NVM memory arrays including a first memory array with two
transistor-two variable resistor memory cells and a second memory
array with one transistor-one variable resistor memory cells. Each
of the resistive NVM memory arrays can be selectively operable in
read, write and standby modes. Additionally, the first memory array
and the second memory array can be interleaved so that, when the
second memory operates in the read mode, the first memory array
automatically and concurrently operates in a reference mode.
Specifically, when the second memory array operates in the read
mode, the first memory array can generate and output a reference
voltage and, particularly, a statistical reference voltage, which
is between the low and high voltages of a nominal memory cell
within the second memory array and which is employed by the second
memory array to sense a stored data value in a selected second
memory cell. By using one transistor-one variable resistor memory
cells in the second memory array, the amount of area consumed by
the resistive NVM structure is reduced. Furthermore, by using the
first memory array to provide a statistical reference voltage for
second memory array read operations, the requirement for additional
reference cell(s) is avoided and read errors associated with
sensing stored data values in the one transistor-one variable
resistor second memory cells are minimized. Also disclosed herein
are embodiments of a corresponding sensing method.
[0009] More particularly, disclosed herein are embodiments of a
nonvolatile memory (NVM) structure. Each of the embodiments of the
NVM structure can include at least two resistive NVM arrays
including a first memory array and a second memory array. The first
memory array can include first memory cells arranged in columns and
rows and each first memory cell can be a two transistor-two
variable resistor memory cell. The second memory array can include
second memory cells arranged in columns and rows and each second
memory cell can be a one transistor-one variable resistor memory
cell. For example, the first memory array can be a spin transfer
torque-magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM) array and each
first memory cell can be a two transistor-two magnetic tunnel
junction (MTJ) memory cell. In this case, the second memory array
can be another STT-MRAM array, but each second memory cell can be a
one transistor-one MTJ memory cell.
[0010] In any case, the first memory array and the second memory
array can each be selectively operable in read, write and standby
modes. Additionally, the first memory array and the second memory
array can be interleaved such that, when the second memory array
operates in the read mode, the first memory array automatically and
concurrently operates in a reference mode. When operating in the
reference mode, the first memory array generates and outputs a
reference voltage that is received and employed by the second
memory array to sense a data value stored in a selected second
memory cell.
[0011] To accomplish this, the first memory array can include a
plurality of switch interconnects that are controlled by a
reference mode signal. In the standby, read or write modes, the
reference mode signal can be maintained at a first level such that
the switch interconnects are turned off. Operation of the first
memory array in the reference mode can be triggered by switching
the reference mode signal from the first level to a second level.
When the reference mode signal is at the second level, the switch
interconnects turn on, thereby causing at least some of the first
memory cells in the first memory array to be electrically connected
in a series-parallel resistor network that generates the reference
voltage and further causing the series-parallel resistor network to
be electrically connected to a sense circuit in the second memory
array.
[0012] As discussed in greater detail in the detailed description
section below, in some exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, due
to the placement of the switch interconnects within the first
memory array, the reference voltage that is generated by the
series-parallel resistor network is data-dependent (i.e., dependent
upon the data values stored in the first memory cells within the
series-parallel resistor network). In other exemplary embodiments
disclosed herein, due to the placement of the switch interconnects
within the first memory array, the reference voltage that is
generated by the series-parallel resistor network is
data-independent (i.e., not dependent upon the data values stored
in the first memory cells within the series-parallel resistor
network) and constant.
[0013] Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a sensing method
that can be employed within a resistive nonvolatile memory (NVM)
structure, as described above, that includes at least two resistive
NVM arrays. Specifically, the resistive NVM structure can include a
first memory array and a second memory array. The first memory
array can include first memory cells arranged in columns and rows
and each first memory cell can be a two transistor-two variable
resistor memory cell. The second memory array can include second
memory cells arranged in columns and rows and each second memory
cell can be a one transistor-one variable resistor memory cell. For
example, the first memory array can be a spin transfer
torque-magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM) array and each
first memory cell can be a two transistor-two magnetic tunnel
junction (MTJ) memory cell. In this case, the second memory array
can be another STT-MRAM array, but each second memory cell can be a
one transistor-one MTJ memory cell.
[0014] The method can include selectively operating the first
memory array in read, write and standby modes and also selectively
operating the second memory array in read, write and standby modes.
Additionally, the method can include concurrently operating the
first memory array in a reference mode, when the second memory
array is operating in the read mode. Operating the first memory
array in the reference mode can include generating and outputting a
reference voltage. Concurrently operating the second memory array
in the read mode can include receiving the reference voltage from
the first memory array and employing the reference voltage to sense
a data value stored in a selected second memory cell within the
second memory array.
[0015] To accomplish concurrent operation of the first memory array
in the reference mode and the second memory array in the read mode,
the method can further include triggering operation of the first
memory array in the reference mode by automatically switching a
reference mode signal from a first level to a second level when the
second memory array switches to the read mode. The reference mode
signal can control a plurality of switch interconnects within the
first memory array and, when the reference mode signal switches to
the second level, the switch interconnects can turn on, thereby
causing at least some of the first memory cells in the first memory
array to be electrically connected in a series-parallel resistor
network that generates the reference voltage and further causing
the series-parallel resistor network to be electrically connected
to a sense circuit in the second memory array.
[0016] As mentioned above and discussed in greater detail in the
detailed description section below, in some exemplary embodiments
disclosed herein, due to the placement of the switch interconnects
within the first memory array, the reference voltage that is
generated by the series-parallel resistor network is data-dependent
(i.e., dependent upon the data values stored in the first memory
cells within the series-parallel resistor network). In other
exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, due to the placement of the
switch interconnects within the first memory array, the reference
voltage that is generated by the series-parallel resistor network
is data-independent (i.e., not dependent upon the data values
stored in the first memory cells within the series-parallel
resistor network) and constant.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The present invention will be better understood from the
following detailed description with reference to the drawings,
which are not necessarily drawn to scale and in which:
[0018] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a resistive
nonvolatile memory (NVM) array that includes one transistor-one
variable resistor (1T-1R) memory cells;
[0019] FIGS. 2A and 2B are cross-section diagrams illustrating an
exemplary spin transfer torque-magnetic random access memory
(STT-MRAM) cell with a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) in a
parallel/low resistance state and an anti-parallel/high resistance
state, respectively;
[0020] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating a resistive NVM
array that includes two transistor-two variable resistor (2T-2R)
memory cells;
[0021] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating another resistive
NVM array that includes 2T-2R memory cells;
[0022] FIG. 5A is a schematic diagram illustrating embodiments of a
resistive nonvolatile memory (NVM) structure that incorporates at
least two NVM arrays including a first memory array with 2T-2R
memory cells and a second memory array with 1T-1R memory cells,
where the first memory array and the second memory array are
interleaved;
[0023] FIGS. 5B-5E are schematic diagrams illustrating exemplary
alternative configurations, respectively, for the first memory
array of the resistive NVM structure of FIG. 5A;
[0024] FIG. 5F is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary
configuration for the second memory array of the resistive NVM
structure of FIG. 5A;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating a series-parallel
resistor network created within the first memory array of FIG. 5B
or 5C during reference mode operation;
[0026] FIG. 7 is a graph illustrating that the series-parallel
resistor network of FIG. 6 captures average process variations
across the resistors within the first memory array;
[0027] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a series-parallel
resistor network created within the first memory array of FIG. 5D
during reference mode operation;
[0028] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating a series-parallel
resistor network created within the first memory array of FIG. 5E
during reference mode operation; and
[0029] FIG. 10 is a flow diagram illustrating embodiments of a
method of operating a resistive NVM structure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0030] As mentioned above, resistive nonvolatile memory (NVM)
structures are currently being considered by integrated circuit
designers as suitable replacements for other on-chip memory arrays
because of advantages such as high speed, low power consumption,
non-volatility and potentially low area consumption.
[0031] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary
resistive NVM array 100 with memory cells 110 arranged in columns
and rows. Each memory cell 110 can be a one transistor-one variable
resistor (1T-1R) memory cell connected in series between a source
line 122 and a bit line 121. The variable resistor can be
configured to selectively exhibit either a low resistance (Rl) or a
high resistance (Rh), depending upon the biasing conditions
employed during a write operation. For example, the resistive NVM
array 100 can be a spin transfer torque-magnetic random access
memory (STT-MRAM) array and each STT-MRAM cell can include a single
field effect transistor (e.g., an n-type field effect transistor
(NFET)) 111 and a single magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) 115 (which
functions as a variable resistor) connected in series between the
source line 122 and the bit line 121. As illustrated, all memory
cells 110 in the same column are connected to the same source line
122 and the same bit line 121. Furthermore, all memory cells 110 in
the same row have transistor gates controlled by the same word line
123.
[0032] FIG. 2A and FIG. 2B further illustrate an exemplary STT-MRAM
cell 110 with the MTJ 115 in a parallel/low resistance state and in
an anti-parallel/high resistance state, respectively. More
particularly, referring to FIG. 1 in combination with FIGS. 2A-2B,
the MTJ 115 is a multi-layer structure that includes a fixed
ferromagnetic layer 112 (also referred to as a pinned layer) and a
switchable ferromagnetic layer 114 (also referred to as a free
layer) separated by a thin dielectric layer 113 (e.g., an thin
oxide layer). During a standby mode, the word line, bit line and
source line are each connected to ground. During a write operation,
depending upon the biasing conditions employed, the MJT can exhibit
either a low resistance or a high resistance. Specifically, during
a write operation, a high positive voltage (VDD) can be applied to
the word line and the bit line and the source line can be connected
to ground. In this case, current flows from the bit line toward the
source line such that the free layer switches to (or maintains) the
parallel state (also referred to as a low resistance state),
thereby storing a logic value of "0" in the STT-MRAM cell (as shown
in FIG. 2A). Alternatively, VDD can be applied to the word line and
the source line and the bit line can be connected to ground. In
this case, current flows from the source line toward the bit line
such that the free layer switches to (or maintains) the
anti-parallel state (also referred to as a high resistance state),
thereby storing a logic value "1" in the STT-MRAM cell (as shown in
FIG. 2B). During a read operation, VDD is applied to the word line,
a relatively low read voltage (VREAD) is applied to the bit line
and the source line is connected to ground. In this case, a
parallel/low resistance state (e.g., a logic "0") will be indicated
by a low voltage on the bit line and an anti-parallel/high
resistance state (e.g., a logic "1") will be indicated by a high
voltage on the bit line. To detect whether there is a low voltage
or a high voltage on the bit line, a sense amplifier (SA) 131 for
each column is employed to compare the voltage (VDATA) on the bit
line to a reference voltage (VREF) 151 supplied by a reference cell
150, which is designed to generate a VREF 151 that is between the
low voltage and the high voltage. However, with current
technologies, the range between the low voltage and the high
voltage is relatively small and designing a reference cell that can
reliably produce a VREF between the low voltage and the high
voltage can be challenging, particularly, given inherent process
and thermal variations.
[0033] More complex resistive NVM arrays with more complex memory
cells have been developed to eliminate the requirement for separate
reference cell(s) and to minimize read errors.
[0034] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary
resistive NVM array 300 with more complex memory cells 319 arranged
in columns and rows. Each memory cell 319 includes two transistors
(e.g., NFETs) 311 and two variable resistors 315. For example, the
resistive NVM array 300 can be a STT-MRAM array and each memory
cell 319 within the array can be a STT-MRAM cell, which includes
one NFET-MTJ device 310 connected in series between a source line
322 and a bit line 321 and an additional NFET-MTJ device 310'
connected in series between an additional source line 322' and an
additional bit line 321'. As illustrated, all memory cells 319 in
the same column are connected to the same bit line 321, additional
bit line 321', source line 322 and additional source line 322'.
Furthermore, all memory cells 319 in the same row can have
transistor gates controlled by the same word line 323. During a
write operation for a selected memory cell 319, the two devices 310
and 310' are written to opposite logic values. During a read
operation for a selected memory cell 319, the voltage (VDATA) on
the bit line 321 for the column is compared by a sense amplifier
331 to the voltage on the additional bit line 321' of the same
column, which functions as the reference voltage (VREF). The
increased complexity and larger memory cell size in such an array
result in a significantly larger amount of chip area consumed.
[0035] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating another exemplary
resistive NVM array 400 with more complex memory cells 419 arranged
in columns and rows. Each memory cell 419 also includes two
transistors (e.g., NFETs) 411 and two variable resistors 415. For
example, the resistive NVM array 400 can be a STT-MRAM array and
each memory cell 419 within the array can be a STT-MRAM cell, which
similarly includes two NFET-MTJ devices 410, 410'. However, in this
case, to reduce the area consumed by the memory array, a common
source line 422 is used for the NFET-MTJ devices 410, 410' in each
column. That is, each STT-MRAM cell 419 includes one NFET-MTJ
device 410 connected in series between a common source line 422 and
a bit line 421 and an additional NFET-MTJ device 410' connected in
series between the common source line 422 and an additional bit
line 421'. As illustrated, all memory cells 419 in the same column
are connected to the same bit line 421, additional bit line 421',
and common source line 422. Furthermore, all memory cells 419 in
the same row can have transistor gates controlled by the same word
line 423. While this configuration reduces area consumption, more
complex biasing schemes must be applied during write operations
because of the common source line 422. For example, one technique
that can be used during write operations employs a dual supply
voltage (e.g., +VDD and -VDD). In this technique, the common source
line 422 is grounded, while the bit line 421 and the additional bit
line 421' are biased at +VDD and -VDD, respectively, to write a "0"
and vice-versa to write a "1". Alternatively, the common source
line 422 can be left floating and the bit line 421 and the
additional bit line 421' can be biased to 2VDD and 0, respectively,
to write a "0" and vice versa to write a "1". Alternatively, a
multi-step write process can be employed. The bit line 421 and the
additional bit line 421' can be biased to VDD and 0, respectively,
to write a "0" and vice-versa to write a "1". In the first step,
the common source line 422 can be biased at 0, thereby writing into
one of the variable resistors. In the second step, CSL is pulled to
VDD, thereby writing into the other variable resistor. During a
read operation, the common source line 422 can be grounded, and a
read current (TREAD) can be passed through the bit line 421 and the
additional bit line 421'. Thus, a voltage difference between the
bit line 421 and the additional bit line 421' is developed, which
is the same as the previous embodiment, and is sensed using a sense
amplifier 431. Still the increased complexity and larger STT-MRAM
cell size in such an array result in a significantly larger amount
of chip area consumed.
[0036] Another example of a resistive NVM array, which includes
memory cells with variable resistors that can be appropriately
biased (i.e., programmed) during a write operation to exhibit
either a low resistance or a high resistance and which suffers from
similar sensing challenges, is a phase change random access memory
(PCRAM) array. In a PCRAM array, PCRAM cells are arranged in
columns and rows. The simplest PCRAM cell includes a single field
effect transistor (FET) and a single variable resistor and,
particularly, a single phase change material layer (e.g., a
chalcogenide glass) that exhibits a different resistance depending
upon its crystalline state. In this case, the crystalline/low
resistance state (e.g., a logic "0") will be indicated by a low
voltage on the bit line and the amorphous/high resistance state
(e.g., a logic "1") will be indicated by a high voltage on the bit
line. To detect whether there is a low voltage or a high voltage on
the bit line, a sense amplifier (SA) is employed to compare the
voltage (VDATA) on the bit line to a reference voltage (VREF)
supplied by a reference cell, which is designed to generate a VREF
that is between the low voltage and the high voltage. However, like
with the STT-MRAM array discussed above, the range between the low
voltage and the high voltage is relatively small and designing a
reference cell that can reliably produce a VREF between the low
voltage and the high voltage can be challenging, particularly,
given inherent process and thermal variations in the phase change
material layers.
[0037] Yet another example of a resistive NVM array, which includes
memory cells with variable resistors that can be appropriately
biased (i.e., programmed) during a write operation to exhibit
either a low resistance or a high resistance and which suffers from
similar sensing challenges, is a resistive random access memory
(RRAM or ReRAM). In a RRAM array, RRAM cells are arranged in
columns and rows. The simplest RRAM cell includes a single field
effect transistor (FET) and a single variable resistor and,
particularly, a single memristor device (e.g., a dielectric
solid-state material, such as a thin oxide layer) that exhibits
different resistances depending upon migration of defects (e.g.,
oxygen vacancies or metal defects) within the memristor material.
Specifically, different biasing conditions can cause migration of
defects in a manner that either breaks or reforms a filament (i.e.,
a conduction path) within the memristor. The filament/low
resistance state (e.g., a logic "0") will be indicated by a low
voltage on the bit line and the broken filament/high resistance
state (e.g., a logic "1") will be indicated by a high voltage on
the bit line. To detect whether there is a low voltage or a high
voltage on the bit line, a sense amplifier (SA) is employed to
compare the voltage (VDATA) on the bit line to a reference voltage
(VREF) supplied by a reference cell, which is designed to generate
a VREF that is between the low voltage and the high voltage.
However, like with the other types of resistive NVM arrays
discussed above, the range between the low voltage and the high
voltage is relatively small and designing a reference cell that can
reliably produce a VREF between the low voltage and the high
voltage can be challenging, particularly, given inherent process
and thermal variations of the memristors.
[0038] Oftentimes resistive NVM structures, such as those described
above, require multiple resistive NVM arrays (e.g., on a single
chip and/or on different chips within a multi-chip package) and in
this case area consumption by the memory arrays is of particular
concern to designers. In view of the foregoing, disclosed herein
are embodiments of a resistive non-volatile memory (NVM) structure
with multiple resistive NVM arrays including a first memory array
with two transistor-two variable resistor memory cells and a second
memory array with one transistor-one variable resistor memory
cells. Each of these resistive NVM arrays can be selectively
operable in read, write and standby modes. Additionally, the first
memory array and the second memory array can further be interleaved
so that, when the second memory operates in the read mode, the
first memory array automatically and concurrently operates in a
reference mode. Specifically, when the second memory array operates
in the read mode, the first memory array generates and outputs a
reference voltage and, particularly, a statistical reference
voltage, which is between the low and high voltages of a nominal
memory cell within the second memory array and which is employed by
the second memory array to sense a stored data value in a selected
memory cell. By using one transistor-one variable resistor memory
cells in the second memory array, the amount of area consumed by
the resistive NVM structure is reduced. Furthermore, by using the
first memory array to provide a statistical reference voltage for
the second memory array, the requirement for additional reference
cell(s) is avoided and read errors associated with sensing stored
data values in one transistor-one variable resistor second memory
cells are minimized. Also disclosed herein are embodiments of a
corresponding sensing method.
[0039] More particularly, referring to FIG. 5A, disclosed herein
are embodiments of a resistive nonvolatile memory (NVM) structure
500. Each of the embodiments of the resistive NVM structure 500 can
include at least two resistive NVM arrays on either the same
integrated circuit (IC) chip or on different IC chips within the
same multi-chip package. These resistive NVM arrays can include at
least a first memory array 600, which includes first memory cells
and, particularly, two transistor-two variable resistor (2T-2R)
memory cells, and a second memory array 700, which includes second
memory cells and, particularly, one transistor-one variable
resistor (1T-1R) memory cells.
[0040] In one exemplary embodiment, the first memory array 600
(including the alternative possible configurations disclosed
herein) and the second memory array 700 can be spin transfer
torque-magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM) arrays, where the
two variable resistors in each first memory cell of the first
memory array 600 and the one variable resistor in each second
memory cell of the second memory array 700 are all magnetic tunnel
junctions (MTJs).
[0041] In other exemplary embodiments, other types of resistive NVM
arrays with other types of variable resistors can be employed. For
example, the resistive NVM arrays 600, 700 can be phase change
random access memory (PCRAM) arrays, where the two variable
resistors of each first memory cell in the first memory array 600
and the one variable resistor of each second memory cell in the
second memory array 700 are phase change material layers.
Alternatively, the resistive NVM arrays 600, 700 can be resistive
random access memory (RRAM or ReRAM) arrays, where the two variable
resistors of each first memory cell in the first memory array 600
and the one variable resistor of each second memory cell in the
second memory array 700 are memristors. Alternatively, the
resistive NVM arrays 600, 700 can be any other suitable type of
resistive NVM arrays where variable resistor(s) in the memory cells
can be appropriately biased (i.e., programmed) during a write
operation to exhibit either a low resistance (e.g., for storage of
a "0" bit) or a high resistance (e.g., for storage of a "1"
bit).
[0042] FIGS. 5B-5E are schematic diagrams illustrating alternative
first memory array configurations 600(1)-600(4) that can be
incorporated into the resistive NVM structure 500. FIG. 5F is a
schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary second memory array
configuration 700 that can be incorporated into the resistive NVM
structure 500.
[0043] As illustrated, the first memory array 600 (e.g., regardless
of whether the configuration used is that shown in FIG. 5B, FIG.
5C, FIG. 5D or FIG. 5E) can include first memory cells 619 arranged
in columns and rows. Each first memory cell 619 within the first
memory array 600 can be a 2T-2R memory cell. Each first memory cell
619 can include a pair of transistor-variable resistor devices 610,
610', each device 610, 610' including a field effect transistor
(e.g., an n-type field effect transistor (NFET)) 611 and a variable
resistor 615. The second memory array 700 (see FIG. 5F) can include
second memory cells 710 arranged in columns and rows. Each second
memory cell 710 can be a 1T-1R memory cell. That is, each second
memory cell 710 can include a single transistor-variable resistor
device, including a field effect transistor (e.g., an NFET) 711 and
a variable resistor 715.
[0044] Each transistor-variable resistor device 610, 610' within
the first memory cells 619 and the transistor-variable resistor
device within the second memory cells 710 can have, for example,
the same basic structure. The type of variable resistors used in
the first memory cells and the second memory cells will vary
depending upon the type of resistive NVM array. For example, the
variable resistors of STT-MRAM cells used in STT-MRAM arrays will
be magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs), which, as described above and
shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, can include a free layer that can be
selectively programed into either a parallel/low resistance state
(Rl) or an anti-parallel/high resistance (Rh), depending upon the
biasing conditions used during a write operation. The variable
resistors of the PCRAM cells used in PCRAM arrays will be phase
change material layers, which as described above can be selectively
programed into either a crystalline/low resistance state (Rl) or an
amorphous/high resistance state (Rh), depending upon the biasing
conditions used during a write operation. The variable resistors of
the RRAM cells used in RRAM arrays will be memristors, which as
described above can be selectively programed into either a
filament/low resistance state (Rl) or a broken filament/high
resistance state (Rh) depending upon the biasing conditions used
during a write operation.
[0045] In any case, the first memory array 600 and the second
memory array 700 can each be selectively operable in read, write
and standby modes. For example, the NVM structure 500 can include a
memory controller 501 (e.g., a computer processing unit (CPU)) that
is operably connected to the first memory array 600 and the second
memory array 700. This memory controller 501 can provide first
control signals 510 and second control signals 520 to the first
memory array 600 and the second memory array 700, respectively, for
separately and selectively controlling operations performed by
those arrays. Such control signals can include, for example,
address signals (e.g., row and column address signals) as well as
read, write or standby signals. Peripheral circuitry in each of the
memory arrays 600, 700 facilitates writing data values to and
reading data values from the memory cells 619, 710 based on these
control signals. This peripheral circuitry includes, but is not
limited to, column address decode logic, bit line and source line
drivers, row address decode logic, word line drivers and a sense
circuit 630, 730. The sense circuit 630, 730 in each memory array
includes sense amplifiers 631, 731 for each column and each sense
amplifier can be configured to sense a stored data value in a
selected memory cell in the column during a read operation
operation.
[0046] It should be noted that, as mentioned above with regard to
memory arrays 100, 300, 400 shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4,
respectively, and as further discussed in greater detail below, for
the first memory array 600 where the first memory cells 619 are two
transistor-two variable resistor memory cells, each sense amplifier
631 will compare voltages on two bit lines during a read operation,
whereas for the second memory array 700 where the second memory
cells 710 are one transistor-one variable resistor memory cells,
each sense amplifier 731 will compare a voltage (VDATA) on a bit
line to a reference voltage (VREF) during a read operation. In any
case, the above-mentioned peripheral circuitry is well known in the
art and, thus, the details thereof have been omitted from this
specification in order to allow the reader to focus on the salient
aspects of the disclosed embodiments.
[0047] Additionally, the first memory array 600 and the second
memory array 700 can be interleaved such that, whenever the second
memory array 700 operates in the read mode, the first memory array
600 automatically and concurrently operates in a reference mode.
When operating in the reference mode, the first memory array 600
can generate and output a reference voltage (VREF) 651 at a node A.
When operating in the read mode, the second memory array 700 can
receive the reference voltage (VREF) 651 and a sense circuit 730 of
the second memory array 700 can employ the reference voltage (VREF)
651 to sense a data value stored in a selected second memory
cell.
[0048] To accomplish this, the first memory array 600 can include a
plurality of switch interconnects. Placement of these switch
interconnects within the first memory array 600 can vary, for
example, as indicated in the different embodiments disclosed herein
(see the detailed discussion below of the different first memory
arrays 600(1)-600(4) of FIGS. 5B-5E, respectively, which can be
incorporated into the resistive NVM structure 500). In any case,
these switch interconnects can all be controlled by a reference
mode signal 530, which is received by the first memory array 600
from the memory controller 501 or, alternatively, from the second
memory array 700, and which switches levels when operation of the
second memory array 600 in the read mode is initiated.
[0049] Specifically, when the second memory array 700 is operating
in any mode other than the read mode (i.e., the write mode or the
standby mode), the reference mode signal 530 can be maintained at a
first level such that the switch interconnects are all turned off,
thereby allowing the first memory array 600 to independently and
selectively operate in either the read mode, the write mode or the
standby mode. However, when operation of the second memory array
700 switches to the read mode, operation of the first memory array
600 in the reference mode can be automatically triggered by
switching of the reference mode signal 530 from the first level to
a second level. When the reference mode signal 530 is at the second
level, the switch interconnects turn on, thereby causing at least
some of the first memory cells 619 in the first memory array 600 to
be electrically connected within a series-parallel resistor network
and further causing a node A in the series-parallel resistor
network to be electrically connected to the sense circuit 730 in
the second memory array 700. Additionally, the series-parallel
resistor network can be biased according to specific reference mode
control signals so that the reference voltage (VREF) 651 is
generated at node A.
[0050] It should be noted that the switch interconnects can be
incorporated into the circuitry of the first memory array 600
without disturbing the first memory array 600 itself such that
memory density and memory characteristics are retained during all
modes of operation. Furthermore, it should be noted that the low
and high resistance states of the variable resistors within the
first memory cells 619 in the first memory array 600 and within the
second memory cells 710 within the second memory array 700 will
vary due to random process and thermal variations. This is true
regardless of whether those variable resistors are MTJs, phase
change memory layers, memristors, etc.
[0051] In each of the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein, the
series-parallel resistor network created by turning on the switch
interconnects within a first memory array 600 is designed so that
the reference voltage (VREF) 651 at node A is a statistical
reference voltage that is proportional to an average resistance
(or, more specifically, a total effective resistance) across all of
the variable resistors of all first memory cells 619 incorporated
into the series-parallel resistor network between nodes A and B,
thereby averaging out the random variations among them.
[0052] In some exemplary embodiments (e.g., 600(1) of FIG. 5B and
600(2) of FIG. 5C), due to the placement of the switch
interconnects within the first memory array 600 and due to the
biasing conditions used to generate the reference voltage (VREF)
651, the average resistance across all of the variable resistors of
the first memory cells 619 within the series-parallel resistor
network between nodes A and B will be dependent on the data values
stored in those first memory cells 619 such that the reference
voltage (VREF) 651 is data-dependent. However, in these embodiments
even though the reference voltage (VREF) 651 is data-dependent, the
configuration of the series-parallel resistor network and the
biasing conditions are such that this average resistance will fall
within a total resistance range having a minimum value that is
above a low resistance (Rl) of a variable resistor in a nominal
second memory cell in the second memory array 600 and a maximum
value that is below a high resistance (Rh) of the variable resistor
in the nominal second memory cell. Thus, the reference voltage
(VREF) 651 is data-dependent.
[0053] In other exemplary embodiments (e.g., 600(3) of FIG. 5D and
600(4) of FIG. 5E), due to the placement of the switch
interconnects within the first memory array 600 and due to the
biasing conditions, the average resistance across all of the
variable resistors in the first memory cells 619 within the
series-parallel resistor network between nodes A and B will not be
dependent on the data values stored in those first memory cells 619
such that the reference voltage (VREF) 651 is data-independent. In
these embodiments, the configuration of the series-parallel
resistor network and the biasing conditions are such that the
average resistance will be a fixed value that is designed to be at
a midpoint between a low resistance (Rl) of a variable resistor in
a nominal second memory cell and a high resistance of the variable
resistor in the nominal second memory cell. Thus, the reference
voltage (VREF) 651 is data-independent and constant.
[0054] More specifically, FIG. 5B illustrates one exemplary first
memory array 600(1) that can be incorporated into the NVM structure
500 of FIG. 5A and that can concurrently operate in a reference
mode, whenever the second memory array 700 is operating in the read
mode, in order to generate a reference voltage (VREF) 651 that is
data-dependent. Specifically, the first memory array 600(1) can
include multiple first memory cells 619 arranged in columns and
rows. Each of the first memory cells 619 can be a two
transistor-two variable resistor memory cell, which includes, for
example, one NFET-variable resistor device 610 connected in series
between a source line 622 and a bit line 621 and an additional
NFET-variable resistor device 610' connected in series between an
additional source line 622' and an additional bit line 621'. All
first memory cells 619 in the same column are connected to the same
bit line 621, additional bit line 621', source line 622 and
additional source line 622', as illustrated. Additionally, all
first memory cells 619 in the same row have transistor gates
controlled by the same word line 623.
[0055] The first memory array 600(1) further includes a plurality
of switch interconnects 691-694 that are controlled by the
reference mode signal 530. Specifically, these switch interconnects
can include a switch interconnect 691 between a node A, which is
connected to an initial bit line of the first column of first
memory cells 619 in the first memory array 600(1), and the sensing
circuit 730 of the second memory array 700. These switch
interconnects can further include switch interconnects 692 between
adjacent word lines 623 of consecutive rows (e.g., of at least two
consecutive rows, of more than two consecutive rows, of all rows,
etc.). These switch interconnects can include switch interconnects
693 between adjacent bit lines of adjacent columns (including a bit
line 621 from one column and an additional bit line 621' from an
immediately adjacent column) in a group of consecutive columns
(e.g., in a group of at least two consecutive columns, a group of
more than two consecutive columns, a group of all columns, etc.).
Finally, these switch interconnects can further include switch
interconnects 694 between the source line 622 and the additional
source line 622' within each column of the same group of
columns.
[0056] In this exemplary first memory array 600(1), when the
reference mode signal 530 switches to the second level, the switch
interconnects 691-694 turn on. As a result, node A and, thereby the
initial bit line 621 of the first column in the group of columns is
electrically connected to the sense circuit 730 of the second
memory array 700 by switch interconnect 691. Additionally, adjacent
word lines 623 of the consecutive rows are electrically connected
by switch interconnects 692, adjacent bit lines of adjacent columns
(including a bit line 621 from one column and an additional bit
line 621' from an immediately adjacent column) within a group of
consecutive columns are electrically connected by switch
interconnects 693, and the source line 622 and the additional
source line 622' within each column of those same columns in the
group are also electrically connected by switch interconnects 694,
thereby forming a series-parallel resistor network 699(1) (e.g.,
see the exemplary series-parallel resistor network shown in FIG.
6).
[0057] FIG. 5C illustrates another exemplary first memory array
600(2) that can be incorporated into the NVM structure 500 of FIG.
5A and that can concurrently operate in a reference mode, whenever
the second memory array 700 operates in the read mode in order to
generate a reference voltage (VREF) 651 that is data-dependent.
This first memory array 600(2) can include multiple first memory
cells 619 arranged in columns and rows. Each of the first memory
cells 619 can be a two transistor-two variable resistor memory
cell, which includes, for example, one NFET-variable resistor
device 610 connected in series between a common source line 622 and
a bit line 621 and an additional NFET-variable resistor device 610'
connected in series between the common source line 622 and an
additional bit line 621'. All first memory cells 619 in the same
column are connected to the same bit line 621, additional bit line
621', and common source line 622, as illustrated. Additionally, all
first memory cells 619 in the same row have transistor gates
controlled by the same word line 623.
[0058] The first memory array 600(2) can further include a
plurality of switch interconnects 691-693 that are controlled by
the reference mode signal 530. Specifically, these switch
interconnects can include a switch interconnect 691 between a node
A, which is connected to an initial bit line of the first column of
first memory cells 619 in the first memory array 600(2), and the
sensing circuit 730 of the second memory array 700. These switch
interconnects can further include switch interconnects 692 between
adjacent word lines 623 (e.g., of at least two consecutive rows, of
more than two consecutive rows, of all rows, etc.). These switch
interconnects can further include switch interconnects 693 between
adjacent bit lines of adjacent columns (including a bit line 621
from one column and an additional bit line 621' from an immediately
adjacent column) in a group of consecutive columns (e.g., in a
group of at least two consecutive columns, of more than two
consecutive columns, of all columns, etc.). It should be noted that
in this exemplary first memory array 600(2), switch interconnects
694 are not included because a common source line is incorporated
into each column (as opposed to two discrete source lines).
[0059] In this exemplary first memory array 600(2), when the
reference mode signal 530 switches to the second level, these
switch interconnects 691-693 turn on. As a result, node A and,
thereby the initial bit line 621 of the first column
(consecutively) of the group is electrically connected to the sense
circuit 730 of the second memory array 700 by switch interconnect
691. Additionally, adjacent word lines 623 of consecutive rows are
electrically connected by switch interconnects 692 and adjacent bit
lines of adjacent columns (including a bit line 621 from one column
and an additional bit line 621' from an immediately adjacent
column) within the group of consecutive columns are electrically
connected by switch interconnects 693, thereby forming a
series-parallel resistor network 699(2) that will be essentially
the same as the series-parallel resistor network 699(1) formed
using the exemplary first memory array 600(1) (e.g., see the
exemplary series-parallel resistor network shown in FIG. 6).
[0060] The series-parallel resistor network 699(1) formed within
the first memory array 600(1) of FIG. 5B or the series-parallel
resistor network 699(2) formed within the first memory array 600(2)
of FIG. 5C can be biased during the reference mode by activating
the word lines 623 (e.g., applying a high positive voltage (VDD) to
the word lines through the word line drivers), applying a read
current (READ) to only the initial bit line 621 of the first column
(consecutively) in the group (e.g., using a bit line driver to
connect that specific bit line to a current source), and grounding
only the last additional bit line 621' of the last column
(consecutively) of the group (e.g., through node B). Depending upon
any data that is currently stored within the first memory cells 619
in the series-parallel resistor network 699(1) or 699(2), the
effective resistance (Reff) between nodes A and B can vary from a
minimum resistance (Rmin) to a maximum resistance (Rmax) as
follows:
Rmin=2*Rl*Rh/(Rl+Rh) to (1)
Rmax=(Rl+Rh)/2, (2)
where Rl refers to the low resistance of each variable resistor and
Rh refers to the high resistance of each variable resistor. For
example, if Rl=3 kilo-ohms (k) and Rh=7 k, then the effective
resistance (Reff) that results in the reference voltage (VREF) 651
can vary between an Rmin of 4.2 k and an Rmax of 5 k. However, the
standard deviation (.sigma.) of the resistance distribution will be
extremely small.
[0061] As mentioned above, each variable resistor within each
memory cell in the first memory array 600(1) of FIG. 5B or 600(2)
of FIG. 5C has a distribution on its low and high resistances due
to random process and thermal variations. In the resulting
series-parallel resistor network 699(1) or 699(2), at least some of
the variable resistors of the memory cells of the memory array are
connected, thereby capturing the average process variations of the
whole array to statistically sharpen the resistance distribution
(as shown in the graph of FIG. 7). Thus, despite being
data-dependent, the reference voltage (VREF) 651 generated at node
A and output to the second memory array 700 is more robust compared
to prior art reference voltages generated by a single reference
cell.
[0062] It should be noted that the total number of first memory
cells 619 that should be used to form the series-parallel resistor
network 699(1) or 699(2) can be predetermined to achieve the
desired statistical reference and can be adjusted by adjusting the
number of word lines of consecutive rows connected by switch
interconnects 692 and/or the number adjacent bit lines of adjacent
columns connected by switch interconnects 693. For the most robust
statistical references, the switch interconnects within the first
memory array 600(1) or 600(2) can be placed so that, during the
reference mode, all the word lines for all consecutive rows are
electrically connected and so that the adjacent bit lines of any
adjacent columns (including a bit line 621 from one column and an
additional bit line 621' from an immediately adjacent column) are
electrically connected. However, alternatively, a fewer number of
rows or columns of the first memory cells 619 can be incorporated
into the series-parallel resistor network 699(1) or 699(2)
balancing the need for a more robust statistical reference with the
need for power savings and/or area consumption savings.
[0063] FIG. 5D illustrates an exemplary first memory array 600(3)
that can be incorporated into the NVM structure 500 of FIG. 5A and
that can concurrently operate in a reference mode, whenever the
second memory array 700 is operating in the read mode, in order to
generate a reference voltage (VREF) 651 that is essentially
data-independent. This first memory array 600(3) can include
multiple first memory cells 619 arranged in columns and rows. Each
of the first memory cells 619 can be a two transistor-two variable
resistor memory cell, which includes, for example, one
NFET-variable resistor device 610 connected in series between a
common source line 622 and a bit line 621 and an additional
NFET-variable resistor device 610' connected in series between the
common source line 622 and an additional bit line 621'. All first
memory cells 619 in the same column are connected to the same bit
line 621, additional bit line 621', and common source line 622, as
illustrated. Additionally, all first memory cells 619 in the same
row have transistor gates controlled by the same word line 623.
[0064] In this exemplary first memory array 600(3), the columns of
first memory cells 619 can be organized into some number N of sets
(i.e., into a first predetermined number of sets of columns) with
each set including N/2 columns (i.e., with each set including a
second predetermined number of columns that is equal to the first
predetermined number divided by two). For example, the first memory
array 600(3) could include a total of 128 consecutive columns. In
this case, the 128 consecutive columns can be organized into 16
sets of columns with each set including 8 columns. It should be
noted that in FIG. 2D only 2 sets of columns each including only 2
columns are shown for purposes of illustration. It should be
understood that this figure is not intended to be limiting and that
the number of sets and number of columns within each set will
depend on the total number of columns within the array. In any
case, in each of the N sets, the initial bit line 621 of the first
column (consecutively) in the set can be connected to a common
first node (node A), which is selectively connectable to the
sensing circuit 730 of the second memory array 700, and the last
additional bit line 621' of the last column (consecutively) in the
set can be connected to an additional common node B, which is
connected to ground.
[0065] The first memory array 600(3) can further include a
plurality of switch interconnects 691 and 693 that are controlled
by the reference mode signal 530. These switch interconnects can
include a switch interconnect 691 between the common node A (and
thereby the initial bit line of the first column in each of the N
sets of columns) and the sensing circuit 730 of the second memory
array 700. These switch interconnects can further include switch
interconnects 693 between adjacent bit lines of adjacent columns
(including a bit line 621 from one column and an additional bit
line 621' from an immediately adjacent column) within each set of
columns. It should be noted that in this exemplary first memory
array 600(3), switch interconnects 692 and 694 are not included
because word line connections are not employed and because a common
source line is incorporated into each column (as opposed to two
discrete source lines).
[0066] In this exemplary first memory array 600(3), when the
reference mode signal switches to the second level, the switch
interconnects 691 and 693 turn on. As a result, common node A and,
thereby each initial bit line 621 of each first column of each set
is electrically connected to the sense circuit 730 of the second
memory array 700 by switch interconnect 691. Additionally, adjacent
bit lines of adjacent columns (including a bit line 621 from one
column and an additional bit line 621' from an immediately adjacent
column) within each set are electrically connected by switch
interconnects 693, thereby forming a series-parallel resistor
network 699(3) (see FIG. 8, which shows an exemplary
series-parallel resistor network 699(3) for a first memory array
600(3), which has been configured as described above with 128
columns organized into 16 sets of 8 columns each). Since each of
the sets is connected between the same two common nodes A and B,
they are all connected in parallel.
[0067] The series-parallel resistor network 699(3) formed within
the first memory array 600(3) of FIG. 5D can be biased during the
reference mode by activating a selected one of the word lines 623,
such as the first word line for the first row (e.g., applying a
high voltage (VDD) to the selected word line through a word line
driver), applying a read current (IREAD) to only the initial bit
line 621 of each first column of each set (e.g., using a bit line
driver to connect that specific bit line to a current source), and
grounding only the last additional bit line 621' of the last column
of each set (e.g., through node B). In this case, the reference
voltage (VREF) 651 generated at the common node A will be
data-independent. Specifically, the effective resistance for each
set of columns between common nodes A and B will be fixed and
essentially independent of the data stored within the first memory
cells of those columns. That is, each of the sets of columns (e.g.,
each of the 16 sets of 8 columns) can have an effective resistance
equal to the following:
Reff=8*(Rl+Rh), (3)
where Rl refers to the low resistance of each variable resistor and
Rh refers to the high resistance of each variable resistor.
Additionally, since each of these 16 sets are connected in parallel
by common nodes A and B, thereby forming the series-parallel
resistor network 699(3), the total overall effective resistance for
the network 699(3) between nodes A and B will be equal to the
following:
Rtotal=8*(Rl+Rh)/16=Rl+Rh/2. (4)
Thus, for example, if Rl=3 kilo-ohms (k) and Rh=7 k, then the total
effective resistance (Rtotal) that results in the reference voltage
(VREF) 651 at node A will be 5k independent of the data stored
within the first memory cells 619.
[0068] FIG. 5E illustrates yet another exemplary first memory array
600(4) that can be incorporated into the NVM structure 500 of FIG.
5A and that can concurrently operate in a reference mode, whenever
the second memory array 700 is operating in the read mode, in order
to generate a reference voltage (VREF) 651 that is essentially
data-independent. This first memory array 600(4) can include
multiple first memory cells 619 arranged in columns and rows. Each
of the first memory cells 619 can be a two transistor-two variable
resistor memory cell, which includes, for example, one
NFET-variable resistor device 610 connected in series between a
common source line 622 and a bit line 621 and an additional
NFET-variable resistor device 610' connected in series between the
common source line 622 and an additional bit line 621'. All first
memory cells 619 in the same column are connected to the same bit
line 621, additional bit line 621', and common source line 622, as
illustrated. Additionally, all first memory cells 619 in the same
row have transistor gates controlled by the same word line 623.
[0069] The first memory array 600(4) can further include a
plurality of switch interconnects 691-692 and 695-696 that are
controlled by the reference mode signal 530. These switch
interconnects can include a switch interconnect 691 between a node
A, which is connected to an initial bit line of the first column of
first memory cells 619 in the first memory array 600(4), and the
sensing circuit 730 of the second memory array 700. These switch
interconnects can further include switch interconnects 692 between
adjacent word lines 623 (e.g., of at least two consecutive rows, of
more than two consecutive rows, of all rows, etc.). These switch
interconnects can further include switch interconnects 695 between
the common source line 622 and the bit line 621 of each pair of
adjacent columns (i.e., between the common source line of one
column and the bit line of another column for each pair of adjacent
columns) of a group of consecutive columns (which includes at least
two consecutive columns, more than two consecutive columns, all
columns, etc.). These switch interconnects can further include
switch interconnects 696 between the bit line 621 and the
additional bit line 621' within each column in the group.
[0070] In this exemplary first memory array 600(4), when the
reference mode signal 530 switches to the second level, the switch
interconnects 691-692 and 695-696 turn on. As a result, node A and,
thereby the initial bit line 621 of the first column
(consecutively) in the group of consecutive columns is electrically
connected to the sense circuit 730 of the second memory array 700
by switch interconnect 691. Additionally, adjacent word lines 623
of consecutive rows are electrically connected by switch
interconnects 692. Within each pair of adjacent columns in the
group, the common source line 622 of one column and the bit line
621 of the adjacent column are electrically connected by switch
interconnects 695. Finally, within each column in the group, the
bit line 621 and the additional bit line 621' are electrically
connected by the switch interconnects 696. These connections result
in the formation of a series-parallel resistor network 699(4)
(e.g., as shown in FIG. 9).
[0071] The series-parallel resistor network 699(4) formed within
the first memory array 600(4) of FIG. 5E can be biased during the
reference mode by activating the word lines 623 (e.g., applying a
high positive voltage (VDD) to the word lines through the word line
drivers), applying a read current (IREAD) to only the initial bit
line 621 of the first column of the consecutive columns (e.g.,
using a bit line driver to connect that specific bit line to a
current source), and grounding only the last common source line 622
of the last column of the consecutive columns (e.g., through node
B). In this case, the reference voltage (VREF) 651 generated at the
common node A will also be data-independent. Specifically, in this
embodiment, biasing will activate Nr rows and Nc columns. In every
one of these Nc columns, the MTJs connected to the bit line 621 and
the MTJs connected to the additional bit line 621' are connected in
parallel. Thus, with Nr rows being active, each column will have
the following effective resistance (Rcol):
Rcol=Rl*Rh/Nr(Rl+Rh). (5)
Furthermore, with Nc columns being active, and the resistances
being connected in series, as shown in FIG. 9, the total effective
resistance (Rtotal) between nodes A and B will be fixed as
follows:
Rtotal=Rl*Rh/Nr(Rl+Rh)Nc. (6)
It should be noted that, since the desired reference resistance is
Rl+Rh/2, the above expression for the total effective resistance
can be equated to obtain the following expression:
(Nc/Nr)=1+Rr/2+1/2*Rr, (7)
where Rr refers to the resistance ratio of Rh/Rl (also referred to
as the resistance on (Ron)/resistance off (Roff) ratio). Thus, for
every technology node, given the Rr, the ratio (Nc/Nr) can be
evaluated to design the desired series-parallel resistor network to
achieve the desired reference voltage.
[0072] The resistive NVM structure 500 embodiments described above
and illustrated in the drawings are shown with one first memory
array 600 and one second memory array 700. However, those skilled
in the art will recognize that a resistive NVM structure will often
include multiple memory arrays and, particularly, more than two
memory arrays. Thus, for example, it should be understood that
additional embodiments of the disclosed resistive NVM structure can
include multiple first memory arrays 600 with first memory cells
619, as described above, and multiple second memory arrays 700 with
second memory cells 710, as described above. At least one first
memory array 600 can be interleaved with a corresponding second
memory array 700 so that the first memory array 600 can provide the
reference voltage (VREF) 651 to the second memory array 700 during
a read operation. For example, one or more of the first memory
arrays 600 can be interleaved with corresponding second memory
arrays 700 so that those first memory arrays 600 can provide the
reference voltages (VREF) 651 to the corresponding second memory
arrays 700 during read operations. For example, all of the first
memory arrays 600 can be interleaved with corresponding second
memory arrays 700 so that those first memory arrays 600 can provide
the reference voltages (VREF) 651 to the corresponding second
memory arrays 700 during read operations.
[0073] Referring to the flow diagram of FIG. 10, also disclosed
herein are embodiments of a sensing method that can be employed
within a resistive nonvolatile memory (NVM) structure, as described
above, that includes at least two resistive NVM arrays.
Specifically, as discussed in detail above and illustrated in FIG.
5A, the NVM structure 500 can include at least two resistive NVM
arrays including a first memory array 600 (e.g., see exemplary
first memory arrays 600(1)-600(4) of FIGS. 5B-5E, respectively,
that can be incorporated into the resistive NVM structure 500 and
the discussion thereof above) and a second memory array 700 (e.g.,
see exemplary second memory array 700 of FIG. 5F that can be
incorporated into the NVM structure 500 and the discussion thereof
above).
[0074] The first memory array 600 can include first memory cells
619 and, particularly, two transistor-two variable resistor (2T-2R)
memory cells, and the second memory array 700 can include second
memory cells 710 and, particularly, one transistor-one variable
resistor (1T-1R) memory cells. In one exemplary embodiment, the
first memory array 600 (including the alternative possible
configurations) and the second memory array 700 can be spin
transfer torque-magnetic random access memory (STT-MRAM) arrays,
where the two variable resistors in each first memory cell of the
first memory array 600 and the one variable resistor in each second
memory cell of the second memory array 700 are all magnetic tunnel
junctions (MTJs). In other exemplary embodiments, other types of
resistive NVM arrays with other types of variable resistors can be
employed. For example, the resistive NVM arrays 600, 700 can be
phase change random access memory (PCRAM) arrays, where the two
variable resistors of each first memory cell in the first memory
array 600 and the one variable resistor of each second memory cell
in the second memory array 700 are phase change material layers.
Alternatively, the resistive NVM arrays 600, 700 can be resistive
random access memory (RRAM or ReRAM) arrays, where the two variable
resistors of each first memory cell in the first memory array 600
and the one variable resistor of each second memory cell in the
second memory array 700 are memristors. Alternatively, the
resistive NVM arrays 600, 700 can be any other suitable type of
resistive NVM arrays where a variable resistor in a memory cell can
be appropriately biased (i.e., programmed) during a write operation
to exhibit either a low resistance (for storage of a "0" bit) or a
high resistance (for storage of a "1" bit).
[0075] The method can include selectively and independently
operating the first memory array 600 in read, write and standby
modes (see process step 1001). The method can further include
selectively and independently operating the second memory array 700
in write and standby modes (see process step 1002). Additionally,
the method can include concurrently operating the first memory
array 600 and the second memory array 700 in a reference mode and a
read mode, respectively (see process step 1110) and, more
particularly, operating the first memory array 600 in the reference
mode, whenever the second memory array 700 is operating in the read
mode.
[0076] To accomplish concurrent operation of the first memory array
600 in the reference mode and the second memory array 700 in the
read mode at process step 1110, the method can further include
initiating a read operation in the second memory array 700 (see
process step 1111). For example, the second memory array 700 can
receive control signals 520 from a memory controller 501 and these
control signals 520 can cause the state of the second memory array
700 to switch to a read mode and can further cause read operations
to be formed with respect to selected second memory cell(s) 710
within the second memory array 700.
[0077] The method can further include essentially concurrently
switching a reference mode signal 530 from a first level to a
second level (see process step 1112). This reference mode signal
530 can be received by the first memory array 600 from the memory
controller 501 or, alternatively, from the second memory array 700.
This reference mode signal 530 can control a plurality of switch
interconnects within the first memory array 600. When the reference
mode signal 530 is at the first level, the switch interconnects
will be maintained in an off state, thereby allowing operation of
the first memory array 600 in read, write or standby modes as
dictated by control signals 510 from the memory controller 501.
[0078] However, when the second memory array 700 switches to the
read mode and the reference mode signal 530 essentially
concurrently switches from the first level to the second level, the
switch interconnects with the first memory array 600 can turn on,
automatically triggering operation of the first memory array 600 in
the reference mode. Specifically, when the switch interconnects
turn on, electrical connections can be made within the first memory
array 600 between at least some of the first memory cells 619 (or,
more particularly, between various lines connected to these cells),
thereby forming a series-parallel resistor network that
incorporates at least some of the first memory cells 619 (see
process step 1113). An additional electrical connection is also
made between a node A in the series-parallel resistor network and a
sense circuit 730 in the second memory array 700.
[0079] The method can further include biasing this series-parallel
resistor network in such a way as to generate a reference voltage
(VREF) 651 at node A (see process step 1114). This reference
voltage (VREF) 651 can be received by the second memory array 700
(due to the established electrical connection).
[0080] The method can further include employing this reference
voltage (VREF) 651 within the second memory array 700 during a read
operation to sense a data value stored in a selected second memory
cell 710 (see process step 1115). Specifically, during the read
operation within the second memory array 700, a high positive
voltage (VDD) can be applied by a word line driver to the word line
723 for the row containing the selected second memory cell 710, a
low positive voltage (VREAD) can be applied to the bit line 721 for
the column containing the selected second memory cell 710 and the
source line 722 for that same column can be connected to ground. In
this case, a low resistance state (e.g., a logic "0") will be
indicated by a low voltage on the bit line and a high resistance
state (e.g., a logic "1") will be indicated by a high voltage on
the bit line. To detect whether there is a low voltage or a high
voltage on the bit line, a sense amplifier (SA) 731 for the column
is employed to compare the voltage (VDATA) on the bit line to the
reference voltage (VREF) 651 from the series-parallel resistor
network formed within the first memory array 600. Even though the
range between the low voltage and the high voltage is relatively
small, given the statistical reference voltage generated by the
series-parallel resistor network, read errors will be
minimized.
[0081] As discussed in detail above, in some exemplary embodiments
disclosed herein (e.g., see exemplary first memory arrays 600(1) of
FIG. 5B and 600(2) of FIG. 5C), due to the placement of the switch
interconnects within the first memory array 600, the reference
voltage (VREF) 651 that is generated by the series-parallel
resistor network at process step 1114 is data-dependent (i.e.,
dependent upon the data values stored in the second memory cells
710 within the series-parallel resistor network). However, since
the standard deviation (a) of the resistance distribution will be
extremely small, read errors are still significantly minimized. In
other exemplary embodiments disclosed herein (e.g., see exemplary
first memory arrays 600(3) of FIG. 5D and 600(4) of FIG. 5E), due
to the placement of the switch interconnects within the first
memory array 600, the reference voltage (VREF) 651 that is
generated by the series-parallel resistor network is
data-independent (i.e., not dependent upon the data values stored
in the second memory cells within the series-parallel resistor
network) and constant.
[0082] It should be understood that the terminology used herein is
for the purpose of describing the disclosed structures and methods
and is not intended to be limiting. For example, as used herein,
the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the
plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates
otherwise. Additionally, as used herein, the terms "comprises"
"comprising", "includes" and/or "including" specify the presence of
stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or
components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or
more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements,
components, and/or groups thereof. Furthermore, as used herein,
terms such as "right", "left", "vertical", "horizontal", "top",
"bottom", "upper", "lower", "under", "below", "underlying", "over",
"overlying", "parallel", "perpendicular", etc., are intended to
describe relative locations as they are oriented and illustrated in
the drawings (unless otherwise indicated) and terms such as
"touching", "in direct contact", "abutting", "directly adjacent
to", "immediately adjacent to", etc., are intended to indicate that
at least one element physically contacts another element (without
other elements separating the described elements). The term
"laterally" is used herein to describe the relative locations of
elements and, more particularly, to indicate that an element is
positioned to the side of another element as opposed to above or
below the other element, as those elements are oriented and
illustrated in the drawings. For example, an element that is
positioned laterally adjacent to another element will be beside the
other element, an element that is positioned laterally immediately
adjacent to another element will be directly beside the other
element, and an element that laterally surrounds another element
will be adjacent to and border the outer sidewalls of the other
element. The corresponding structures, materials, acts, and
equivalents of all means or step plus function elements in the
claims below are intended to include any structure, material, or
act for performing the function in combination with other claimed
elements as specifically claimed.
[0083] The descriptions of the various embodiments of the present
invention have been presented for purposes of illustration, but are
not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the embodiments
disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to
those of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope
and spirit of the described embodiments. The terminology used
herein was chosen to best explain the principles of the
embodiments, the practical application or technical improvement
over technologies found in the marketplace, or to enable others of
ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed
herein.
* * * * *