Patent ID: 6038168
Filing Date: 2000-03-14
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
A method of programming an integrated circuit to always enter into a desired state upon power-up of the integrated circuit by permanently altering properties of at least one component MOSFET transistor, comprising the steps of:a) applying only once a constant high voltage to a drain of the MOSFET transistor for one predetermined period of time; andb) applying only once concurrently with step a) a constant voltage lower than the high voltage by a factor of about 0.3 to about 0.7 to a gate of the transistor, including effecting a permanent channel hot electron alteration of a gate oxide of the MOSFET transistor by degrading the MOSFET transistor by damaging the physical properties of the MOSFET transistor such that the MOSFET transistor conducts less current.