Wordline negative boost write-assist circuits for memory bit cells employing a P-type field-effect transistor (PFET) write port(s), and related systems and methods

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United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 10224084
APP PUB NO 20180033465A1
SERIAL NO

15717028

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Abstract

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Write-assist circuits for memory bit cells (“bit cells”) employing a P-type Field-Effect transistor (PFET) write port(s) are disclosed. Related methods and systems are also disclosed. It has been observed that as node technology is scaled down in size, PFET drive current (i.e., drive strength) exceeds N-type Field-Effect transistor (NFET) drive current for like-dimensioned FETs. In this regard, in one aspect, it is desired to provide bit cells having PFET write ports, as opposed to NFET write ports, to reduce memory write times to the bit cells, and thus improve memory performance. To mitigate a write contention that could otherwise occur when writing data to bit cells, a write-assist circuit provided in the form of negative wordline boost circuit can be employed to strengthen a PFET access transistor in a memory bit cell having a PFET write port(s).

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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
QUALCOMM INCORPORATED5775 MOREHOUSE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-1714

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Atallah, Francois Ibrahim Raleigh, US 42 321
Bowman, Keith Alan Morrisville, US 34 228
Hansquine, David Joseph Winston Raleigh, US 13 92
Jeong, Jihoon Cary, US 49 216
Nguyen, Hoan Huu Cary, US 17 104

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