Patent ID: 7171327
Filing Date: 2007-01-30
Classification: G01K

Abstract:
1. A random access memory device including a temperature sensing circuit, the temperature sensing circuit comprising: a sensing device configured to hold a sensed voltage that varies with changes in temperature; a temperature reference circuit having a plurality of reference voltages; a switch circuit coupled to the temperature reference circuit; a comparator having a first input, a second input, and an output, the comparator configured to receive the sensed voltage from the sensing device on its first input and configured to receive the reference voltages on its second input, and configured to produce comparison signals at its output; first and second latches configured to latch and hold the comparison signals from the comparators; and a control circuit coupled to switch circuit and to the first and second latches, wherein the control circuit controls the switch circuit such that reference voltages are selectively applied to the first input to the comparator and wherein the control circuit selectively controls the first and second latches to hold the comparison signals.