Patent ID: 6075739
Filing Date: 2000-06-13
Classification: G11C

Abstract:
A semiconductor storage device having a self-refresh function, comprising:a plurality of memory cells each constructed of a transistor and a capacitor;a plurality of bit lines connected with the memory cells arranged in columns;a bit line pre-charge potential line for applying a pre-charge potential to said bit lines;a bit line pre-charge potential generator for retaining the pre-charge potential on said bit line pre-charge potential line;a refresh timer circuit for generating a clock signal in a specified refresh cycle in a self-refresh mode of said device;a leak-monitoring capacitor connected with said bit line pre-charge potential generator;charging means for charging one end of said leak-monitoring capacitor with a first potential; anddischarging means for discharging from said leak-monitoring capacitor an amount of electric charges corresponding to a leak occurring at said bit line pre-charge potential line, whereinsaid refresh timer circuit generates a clock signal in a cycle corresponding to a time in which said first potential at the one end of said leak-monitoring capacitor lowers to a second potential.