Patent ID: 6107839
Filing Date: 2000-08-22
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
A sense amplifier having improved sensitivity for sensing a logic level represented by a differential pair of data signals, comprising:a first discharge circuit, coupled to a first internal signal of said sense amplifier, for allowing a charge stored on that first internal signal to be discharged at a first rate, said first rate being proportional to a voltage level of one of the data signals, said one of the data signals being isolated from said first discharge circuit such that a logic level associated with said one of said data signals is not affected by said discharge of said first internal signal;a second discharge circuit, coupled to a second internal signal of said sense amplifier, for allowing a charge stored on that second internal signal to be discharged at a second rate, said second rate being proportional to a voltage level of another one of said data signals, said another one of the data signals being isolated from said second discharge circuit such that a logic level associated with said another one of said data signals is not affected by said discharge of said second internal signal; andan evaluate unit, connecting said first and second discharge circuits to an electrical ground, for conveying a first portion of said charges to said electrical ground at an initial rate and for conveying a second portion of said charges of said first and second internal signal to said electrical ground at a subsequent rate, wherein said evaluate unit conveys said electrical ground after a certain time delay has occurred since said first portion of said charges of said first and second internal signals is conveyed to said electrical ground, such that said sensitivity of said sense amplifier is improved.