Patent ID: 6687161
Filing Date: 2004-02-03
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
A sensing device for sensing a programmed state of a floating-gate memory cell, wherein the sensing device has an input node selectively coupled to the floating-gate memory cell, the sensing device comprising:a precharging path coupled between a first potential node and the input node of the sensing device, wherein the first potential node is coupled to receive a precharge potential; a reference current path coupled between a second potential node and the input node of the sensing device, wherein the second potential node is coupled to receive a second potential for providing a reference current to the input node of the sensing device; and a sense inverter having an input coupled to the input node of the sensing device and an output for providing an output signal responsive to a potential level of the input node of the sensing device relative to a threshold point, wherein the output signal is indicative of the programmed state of the floating-gate memory cell.