Patent ID: 6580658
Filing Date: 2003-06-17
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
A method using a word line driver for driving a word line, the word line driver comprising:a first address decoder having a first circuit and a second circuit for selecting the word line, and a control end disposed between the first circuit and the second circuit; and a level shift circuit connected between a first power supply, a second power supply, the first address decoder, and the word line for shifting a voltage level of the word line, the level shift circuit having an input end connected to the second circuit of the first address decoder; the method comprising following steps: (a) shifting a voltage level of the control end while turning on the second circuit so as to shift a voltage level of the input end of the level shift circuit; and (b) shifting a voltage level of at least one of the first and second power supplies and using the second circuit to isolate the voltage level of the control end from the voltage level of the word line.