Patent ID: 6137726
Filing Date: 2000-10-24
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
In a multi-level memory device including a plurality of memory cells, each of which has a programmable threshold voltage such that the memory cell produces a current in response to a word line voltage applied thereto, an apparatus for generating word line voltages comprising:a plurality of memory cell referenced regulators connected to an output terminal that is configured to connect to the plurality of memory cells, a respective one of the memory cell referenced regulators including a respective dummy memory cell, wherein said plurality of memory cell referenced regulators are responsive to at least one select signal that selects one memory cell referenced regulator of said plurality of memory-cell referenced regulators and to an output voltage at said output terminal such that the selected one of said memory cell referenced regulators varies a current at said output terminal to maintain said output voltage at a voltage proportional to a predetermined threshold voltage of the dummy memory cell of the selected memory cell referenced regulator.