Patent ID: 7911826
Filing Date: 2011-03-22
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
1. A method for using memory elements on an integrated circuit, wherein each memory element has a pair of cross-coupled inverters that store data and at least one clear transistor for clearing the data from the memory element, the method comprising: powering the cross-coupled inverters using a ground power supply signal equal to a given ground voltage while the cross-coupled inverters store the data during normal operation of the integrated circuit; during clear operations, elevating the ground power supply signal above the given ground voltage to weaken at least a given one of the cross-coupled inverters in each memory element and asserting a clear control signal to turn on the clear transistor of each memory element, wherein elevating the ground power supply signal above the given ground voltage comprises raising the ground power supply voltage to a positive voltage before asserting the clear control signal; deasserting the clear control signal to turn off the clear transistor of each memory element; and lowering the elevated ground power supply signal back to the given ground voltage before deasserting the clear control signal.