Abstract:
Disclosed is a method for monitoring an internal control signal of a memory device and an apparatus therefore. The method includes (a) generating a first signal having a first pulse width by a burst operation command, (b) receiving the first signal, and generating N−1 (where, N is a burst length) second signals having a second pulse width, (c) receiving the first signal and the second signals, and outputting a third signal by changing the first pulse width of the first signal and the second pulse width of the second signals in accordance with a variation of a frequency of a clock signal of the memory device, (d) outputting the third signal to an external pin of the memory device and monitoring the third signal, and (e) adjusting a pulse width of a signal that controls an operation of a data bus connecting a bit-line sense amplifier and a data sense amplifier using the third signal.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0001]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0002]    The present invention relates to a method for monitoring an internal signal for controlling the operation of a sense amplifier of a memory device and an apparatus therefor, and more particularly to a method for monitoring an internal signal for controlling the operation of a sense amplifier of a memory device and an apparatus therefor that can control the operation section of the sense amplifier in accordance with a variation of the operating frequency of the memory device. 
         [0003]    2. Description of the Prior Art 
         [0004]      FIG. 1  is a view explaining read/write operations of a general memory device. 
         [0005]    As illustrated in  FIG. 1 , in a write operation, data applied through an input/output (I/O) data pad is transferred to a bit-line sense amplifier through a data input buffer, a data input register, and a data driver. In a read operation, cell data amplified by the bit-line sense amplifier is transferred to the I/O data pad through a data sense amplifier, a pipe register, and a data output buffer. 
         [0006]    In  FIG. 1 , a Signal Yi is a pulse signal for controlling column lines, which controls the operation of a data bus connecting the bit-line sense amplifier and the data sense amplifier. While the Signal Yi for controlling the data bus is enabled, write data is transferred from a write driver to the bit-line sense amplifier, and read data is transferred from the bit-line sense amplifier to the data sense amplifier. 
         [0007]    Accordingly, in order to transfer valid data in an active operation (i.e., in a read or write operation), it is favorable to widen the pulse width of the Signal Yi. The wide pulse width of the Signal Yi heightens the data restore under the condition of the same tDPL (which is a time period from the time point that a CAS (Column Address Strobe) pulse signal is internally generated by a write command to the time point that a pre-charge pulse signal is internally generated by a pre-charge command). 
         [0008]    Accordingly, it is general to first set the pulse width of the Signal Yi as wide as possible within a permitted limit and then to reduce the pulse width as needed. For reference, as the operating frequency of the memory device is increased (i.e., as the clock period is reduced), the permitted pulse width of the Signal Yi becomes reduced. 
         [0009]    Meanwhile, the Signal Yi as described above is made by receiving a read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13  output from a read/write strobe pulse generating circuit, and thus the read/write strobe pulse generating circuit will be explained hereinafter. 
         [0010]      FIG. 2   a  is a circuit diagram of a conventional read/write strobe pulse generating circuit, and  FIG. 2   b  is a waveform diagram of signals appearing in the circuit of  FIG. 2   a.    
         [0011]    Referring to  FIG. 2   a , a pulse signal extyp 8  and a pulse signal icasp 6  are signals for making data transmission lines of a memory cell array and data transmission lines of a peripheral circuit short or open in order to read and provide data stored in the cell array (i.e., core region) of the memory device to the peripheral circuit or to write data applied to the peripheral circuit in the memory cell array. For convenience in explanation, the region that includes the memory cell and the bit-line sense amplifier is called a core region, and the remaining region is called a peripheral circuit. 
         [0012]    More specifically, the extyp 8  signal is a pulse signal generated in synchronization with a clock signal if a read or write command (i.e., burst command) is applied from an outside. The icasp 6  signal is a signal used to operate the memory device by creating a self burst operation command as long as a burst length determined by an MRS (Mode Register Set) from a clock that is one-period later than a clock at which the read or write command is applied from the outside. 
         [0013]    The read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13  is a signal that is activated in synchronization with burst operation commands (External=extyp 8  &amp; Internal=icasp 61 ) whenever these signals are activated and as long as the burst length determined by the general MRS. That is, the rdwtstbzp 13  signal is a signal that reports the time point of activation of an input/output sense amplifier used to sufficiently amplify data transmitted from the core region to the peripheral circuit and to transmit the amplified data to a data output buffer. After the data is amplified and transmitted, the rdwtstbzp 13  signal is used to reset the data transmission lines of the peripheral circuit. 
         [0014]    A pwrup signal is a signal for setting an initial value, which is first in a high level, goes to a low level, and then is kept in the low level. A term_z signal is a signal used in a test mode, and is kept in a low level during its normal operation. A tm_clkpulsez signal is a signal used in a test mode. The signals as described above will be explained in more detail later. 
         [0015]    The operation of the circuit illustrated in  FIG. 2   a  will now be explained with reference to a waveform diagram of  FIG. 2   b.    
         [0016]    As can be seen in  FIG. 2   b , if a read/write command is applied in synchronization with a clock signal, a pulse signal extyp 8  is generated. If the extyp 8  signal is generated, plural pulses icasp 6  are sequentially generated in synchronization with the next clock. As illustrated in  FIG. 2   b , the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13  is generated in synchronization with a rising edge of the pulse signals extyp 8  and icasp 6 . 
         [0017]    It can be seen from the conventional circuit of  FIG. 2   a  that a pulse width adjustment unit  200  for determining the pulse width of the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13  is fixed irrespective of the operating frequency of the memory device. That is, because a delay time obtained through a delay unit  20  of the pulse width adjustment unit  100  is fixed, the pulse width of the signal output from the pulse width adjustment unit  100  is just constant. 
         [0018]    If the operating frequency of the memory device is varied, however, it becomes necessary to adjust the pulse width of the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13 . 
         [0019]    Conventionally, if the operating frequency of the memory device is varied, the delay time of the delay unit  20  is adjusted by correcting a metal option during a FIB work. However, this requires plenty of cost and time. 
         [0020]    The conventional circuit also has the problems in that it is not easy to monitor the internal voltage of the memory device after a packaging process of the memory device. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0021]    Accordingly, the present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems occurring in the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a method capable of automatically adjusting the pulse width of a signal output from a pulse width adjustment unit in accordance with a variation of the operating frequency of a memory device. 
         [0022]    Another object of the present invention is to provide a method capable of adjusting the pulse width of a read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13  in correspondence to a change of an external clock signal. 
         [0023]    Still another object of the present invention is to provide a method for adjusting a delay time of a delay unit in a pulse width adjustment unit using a CL (CAS Latency) that changes according to the operating frequency of a memory device. 
         [0024]    Still another object of the present invention is to provide a method capable of monitoring the pulse width of a read/write strobe pulse signal in a packaged state of a memory device. 
         [0025]    In order to accomplish these objects, there is provided a method for monitoring an internal control signal of a memory device, comprising the steps of (a) generating a first signal having a first pulse width by a burst operation command, (b) receiving the first signal, and generating N−1 (where, N is a burst length) second signals having a second pulse width, (c) receiving the first signal and the second signals, and outputting a third signal by changing the first pulse width of the first signal and the second pulse width of the second signals in accordance with a variation of a frequency of a clock signal of the memory device, (d) outputting the third signal to an external pin of the memory device and monitoring the third signal, and (e) adjusting a pulse width of a signal that controls an operation of a data bus connecting a bit-line sense amplifier and a data sense amplifier using the third signal. 
         [0026]    In another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for monitoring an internal control signal of a memory device, comprising the steps of (a) generating a first signal having a first pulse width by a burst operation command, (b) receiving the first signal, and generating N−1 (where, N is a burst length) second signals having a second pulse width, (c) receiving the first signal and the second signals, and outputting a third signal by changing the first pulse width of the first signal and the second pulse width of the second signals in accordance with a CAS (Column Address Strobe) latency of the memory device, (d) outputting the third signal to an external pin of the memory device and monitoring the third signal, and (e) adjusting a pulse width of a signal that controls an operation of a data bus connecting a bit-line sense amplifier and a data sense amplifier using the third signal. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0027]    The above and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be more apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
           [0028]      FIG. 1  is a view explaining read/write operations of a conventional memory device; 
           [0029]      FIG. 2   a  is a circuit diagram of a conventional read/write strobe pulse generating circuit; 
           [0030]      FIG. 2   b  is a waveform diagram of signals appearing in the circuit of  FIG. 2   a;    
           [0031]      FIG. 3  is a circuit diagram of a read/write strobe pulse signal generating circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0032]      FIGS. 4 to 6  are circuit diagrams of a pulse width adjustment unit illustrated in  FIG. 3 ; 
           [0033]      FIG. 7  is a circuit diagram of an address buffer according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0034]      FIG. 8  is a circuit diagram of a data output buffer according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0035]      FIG. 9  is a waveform diagram explaining the operation of the conventional circuit illustrated in  FIG. 2   a;    
           [0036]      FIG. 10  is a waveform diagram of signals used in the circuit according to the present invention; 
           [0037]      FIG. 11  is a waveform diagram explaining a process that the logic levels of flag signals are changed according to the frequency of a clock signal; 
           [0038]      FIG. 12  is a waveform diagram of output signals produced when a path C-D as illustrated in  FIG. 6  is used; 
           [0039]      FIG. 13  is a waveform diagram of signals used in a data output buffer of  FIG. 8 ; 
           [0040]      FIG. 14  is a circuit diagram of a read/write strobe pulse signal generating circuit according to another embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0041]      FIGS. 15 and 16  are circuit diagrams of a pulse width adjustment unit illustrated in  FIG. 14 ; 
           [0042]      FIG. 17  is a circuit diagram of an address buffer according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0043]      FIG. 18  is a circuit diagram of a data output buffer according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
           [0044]      FIG. 19  is a waveform diagram of output signals of the conventional circuit illustrated in  FIG. 2   a;    
           [0045]      FIG. 20  is a waveform diagram of signals used in the circuit illustrated in  FIG. 14  according to the present invention; 
           [0046]      FIG. 21  is a waveform diagram of other signals used in the circuit illustrated in  FIG. 14  according to the present invention; 
           [0047]      FIG. 22  is a waveform diagram of still other signals used in the circuit illustrated in  FIG. 14  according to the present invention; and 
           [0048]      FIG. 23  is a waveform diagram of signals used in a data output buffer of  FIG. 18 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
       [0049]    Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description and drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate the same or similar components, and so repetition of the description on the same or similar components will be omitted. 
         [0050]      FIG. 3  is a circuit diagram of a read/write strobe pulse signal generating circuit according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0051]    Unlike the conventional circuit of  FIG. 2   a , a pulse width adjustment unit  300  in the circuit of  FIG. 3  is controlled by a clock signal clk_in. 
         [0052]    The circuit of  FIG. 3  includes an input signal receiving unit  310 , a pulse width adjustment unit  300 , a signal transfer unit  320 , a test mode circuit unit  330 , and an output unit  340 . 
         [0053]    The input signal receiving unit  310  includes inverters INV 30  and INV 31  and a NAND gate NAND 30 . The input signal extyp 8  is applied to the inverter INV 30 , and an input signal icasp 6  is applied to the inverter INV 31 . Output signals of the inverters INV 30  and INV 31  are applied to the NAND gate NAND 30 . 
         [0054]    The pulse width adjustment unit  300  receives an output signal of the NAND gate NAND 30 , a test mode signal tmz_ 1 , a clock signal clk_in, and address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1 . The output signal of the NAND gate NAND 30  is applied to the pulse width adjustment unit  300  through a node A, and after a predetermined delay time, it is output through a node B. At that time, the pulse width of the signal output to the node B can be changed using the clock signal clk_in. For reference, the tmz_ 1  signal is a control signal for determining the test mode. If the tmz_ 1  signal is in a low level, the circuit operates in a test mode, while if the signal is in a high level, the circuit operates in a normal operation mode. The add_ 0  and add_ 1  signals are external address signals that are used in the test mode. Functions performed by the respective signals will be explained in detail. 
         [0055]    The signal transfer unit  320  receives the signal output from the pulse width adjustment unit, and includes buffering inverters INV 32 , INV 33 , and INV 34 . 
         [0056]    The test mode circuit unit  330  includes transistors P 31 , P 32  and N 31  and a latch unit  301 . Specifically, the test mode circuit unit  330  includes the PMOS transistor P 31  and the NMOS transistor P 32  connected in series between a power supply terminal and a ground terminal, the PMOS transistor P 32  connected between the power supply terminal and a node NODE 31 , and the latch unit  301  for latching a signal from the node NODE 31 . Here, the term ‘termz’ denotes a signal used in a test mode, and the pwrup signal has already been explained with reference to  FIG. 2   a.    
         [0057]    The output unit  340  includes a NAND gate  302  and inverters INV 35  and INV 36 . The NAND gate  302  receives an output signal of the inverter INV 34 , the termz signal, and an output signal of the latch unit  301 . Here, the termz signal serves to intercept the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13 . An output signal of the NAND gate  302  is applied to the inverters INV 35  and INV 36  connected in series. An output of the inverter INV 36  is the output signal of the output unit  340 , which is the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13 . 
         [0058]    In the normal operation mode, the input signals extyp 8  and icasp 6  are output as the read/write strobe pulse signal after a predetermined time elapses. In this case, the pulse width adjustment unit  300  can adjust the pulse width of the read/write strobe pulse signal by adjusting the pulse width of the input signals extyp 8  and icasp 6  applied through a node A using the clock signal clk_in that is changed according to the variation of the operating frequency. 
         [0059]      FIGS. 4 to 6  are circuit diagrams of examples of the pulse width adjustment unit illustrated in  FIG. 3 . As will be explained later, the clock signal clk_in is applied to the pulse width adjustment unit  300  in order to detect the operating frequency of the memory device. In the test mode, the test mode signal tmz_ 1  is applied to the pulse width adjustment unit  300 . Also, in the test mode, the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are applied to the pulse width adjustment unit  300  to achieve a delay tuning. For reference, nodes A and B of  FIG. 3  correspond to nodes A and B of  FIG. 5 , respectively. Also, nodes C and D of  FIG. 5  correspond to nodes C and D of  FIG. 6 . 
         [0060]    Hereinafter, the circuits illustrated in  FIGS. 4 to 6  will be explained in more detail. 
         [0061]      FIG. 4  illustrates a circuit that receives the clock signal clk_in, and outputs signals dec_ 0   z , dec_ 1   z , and dec_ 2   z  for judging the range of the operating frequency of the memory device. More specifically, the circuit of  FIG. 4  receives the clock signal clk_in, judges the operating frequency of the memory device by creating a plurality of internal signals dlic 4 _ref, dlic 4 , dlic 4   d   1 , dlic 4   d   2 , cmp, flag_ 1 , and flag_ 2 , and finally outputs the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 0   z , dec_ 1   z , and dec_ 2   z  for judging the operating frequency of the memory device. 
         [0062]    As illustrated in  FIG. 4 , the clock signal clk_in is input to a divider  400 . The divider  400  outputs a divided signal dlic 4 _ref having a period longer than that of the clock signal clk_in. As illustrated in  FIG. 8 , the period of the divided signal dlic 4 _ref is four times as long as the period of the clock signal clk_in. In this case, a low-level section of the divided signal dlic 4 _ref is equal to the period tCLK of the clock signal clk_in. However, according to circumstances, a manufacturer may adjust the period of the divided signal dlic 4 _ref. The divided signal dlic 4 _ref is applied to a buffer means  401  composed of inverters the number of which is odd, is delayed for a specified time, and then is output with its phase inverted. The phase-inverted divided signal is denoted as dlic 4 . The waveforms of the signals dlic 4 _ref and dlic 4  are illustrated in  FIG. 8 . 
         [0063]    Referring to  FIG. 4 , the divided signal dlic 4 _ref and the inverted divided signal dlic 4  are applied to a NAND gate NAND 41 . An output signal of the NAND gate NAND 41  is applied to a delay unit  406  and a NOR gate NOR 41 . The NOR gate NOR 41  receives an output signal of the NAND gate NAND 41  and an output signal of the delay unit  406 , and outputs a pulse signal cmp. The output signal cmp of the NOR gate NOR 41  is illustrated in  FIG. 8 . Additionally, the inverted divided signal dlic 4  is applied to delay units delay_A and delay_B. In this case, delay times of the delay units delay_A and delay_B are different from each other. Output signals of the delay units delay_A and delay_B are denoted as dlic 4   d   1  and dlic 4   d   2 , respectively. 
         [0064]    The output signal dlic 4   d   1  of the delay unit delay_A and the divided signal dlic 4 _ref are applied to a flip-flop circuit  402 . The flip-flop  402  is composed of two NAND gates, and input/output terminals of the NAND gates cross each other. Output signals of the flip-flop  402  output through its two output terminals are denoted as X and Y. 
         [0065]    The output signal dlic 4   d   1  of the delay unit delay_B and the divided signal dlic 4 _ref are applied to a flip-flop circuit  403 . The flip-flop  403  is composed of two NAND gates, and input/output terminals of the NAND gates cross each other. Output signals of the flip-flop  403  output through its two output terminals are denoted as W and Z. 
         [0066]    Then, the NAND gate NAND 42  receives the output signal cmp of the NOR gate NOR 41  and the output signal X of the flip-flop  402 . The NAND gate NAND 43  receives the output signal cmp of the NOR gate NOR 41  and the output signal Y of the flip-flop  402 . The NAND gate NAND 44  receives the output signal camp of the NOR gate NOR 41  and the output signal W of the flip-flop  403 . The NAND gate NAND 45  receives the output signal cmp of the NOR gate NOR 41  and the output signal Z of the flip-flop  403 . 
         [0067]    The output signal of the NAND gate NAND 42  and the output signal of the NAND gate NAND 43  are applied to the flip-flop  402 . The flip-flop  404  is composed of two NAND gates, and input/output terminals of the NAND gates cross each other. In  FIG. 4 , an output signal of a flip-flop  404  is indicated as a flag signal flag_ 1 . 
         [0068]    The output signal of the NAND gate NAND 44  and the output signal of the NAND gate NAND 44  are applied to a flip-flop  405 . The flip-flop  405  is composed of two NAND gates, and input/output terminals of the NAND gates cross each other. In  FIG. 4 , an output signal of a flip-flop  405  is indicated as a flag signal flag_ 2 . 
         [0069]    For reference, if the delay time of a delay unit  407  is longer than that of a delay unit  408  (i.e., delay_A&lt;delay_B), the logic levels of the flag signals are as follows. 
         [0070]    If tCK&lt;delay_A, the flag signals flag_A and flag_B are both in a low level. Here, tCK denotes the period of the clock signal clk_in. 
         [0071]    If delay_A&lt;tCK&lt;delay_B, the flag signal flag_ 1  is in a high level, and the flag signal flag_ 2  is in a low level. 
         [0072]    If tCK&gt;delay_B, the flag signals flag_A and flag_B are both in a high level. 
         [0073]    Referring to  FIG. 4 , the flag signals flag_A and flag_B are applied to the inverters INV 41  and INV 42 , respectively. Respective output signals of the inverters INV 41  and INV 42  are applied to a NAND gate NAND 46 . The NAND gate NAND 46  outputs an operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 0   z.    
         [0074]    Then, the flag signal flag_ 2  is applied to the inverter INV 43 . The output signal of the inverter INV 43  and the flag signal flag_ 1  are applied to a NAND gate NAND 47 . The NAND gate NAND 47  outputs an operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 1   z.    
         [0075]    Finally, the flag signals flag_ 1  and flag_ 2  are applied to a NAND gate NAND 48 . The NAND gate NAND 48  outputs an operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z.    
         [0076]      FIGS. 5 and 6  illustrate examples of the pulse width adjustment unit  300  illustrated in  FIG. 3 . 
         [0077]      FIG. 5  illustrates a circuit that performs a method for controlling the delay time of the pulse width adjustment unit  300  using the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z .  FIG. 6  illustrates a delay circuit that is located between nodes C and D illustrated in  FIG. 5  and that additionally tunes the amount of delay using the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  when the circuit enters into the test mode. That is, the circuit of  FIG. 6  controls the additional delay amount using the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1 . 
         [0078]    Hereinafter, the circuits of  FIGS. 5 and 6  will be explained in more detail. 
         [0079]    The circuit of  FIG. 5  includes switching elements  511 ,  512 ,  514 ,  515 , and  516  controlled by the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 0   z , dec_ 1   z , and dec_ 2   z . Each modulation unit  517  or  518  is composed of a NAND gate and an inverter connected in series. The modulation units  517  and  518  receive the signal on the node A through their one input terminal. 
         [0080]    In  FIG. 5 , the total delay time corresponds to a section from the node A to the node B. Here, the nodes A and B illustrated in  FIG. 5  are the same as the nodes A and B illustrated in  FIG. 3 . 
         [0081]    A signal input through the node A of  FIG. 5  is an output signal of the input signal receiving unit  310 , i.e., the extyp 8  signal or the icasp 6  signal. 
         [0082]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , the turn-on/off operation of the switching elements  511  and  514  is controlled by the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 1   z  and dec_ 2   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  512  is controlled by the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 0   z , and the turn-on/off operation of the switching element  515  is controlled by the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  516  is controlled by the test mode signal tmz_ 1 . 
         [0083]    In operation, if an output signal of a NAND gate NAND 121  that receives the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 1   z  and dec_ 2   z  is in a high level, the switching elements  511  and  514  are turned on. Accordingly, the signal input through the node A passes through a delay unit  501 , a conversion unit  517 , delay units  502  and  503 , a modulation unit  518 , and the switching element  514 . Here, the switching element  515  is controlled by the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z . Accordingly, if the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z  is in a low level, the signal having passed through the switch element  514  is transferred to a node C via the delay unit  504 . However, if the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z  is in a high level, the signal having passed through the switching element  514  is directly transferred to the node C. 
         [0084]    In operation, if the switching element  512  is turned on by the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 0   z , the signal input through the node A passes through the delay unit  501 , the conversion unit  517 , and the switching element  512 . If the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z  is in a low level, the signal having passed through the switch element  512  is transferred to the node C via the delay unit  504 . However, if the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z  is in a high level, the signal having passed through the switching element  512  is directly transferred to the node C. 
         [0085]    Next, the signal on the node C is transferred to the node B through the switching element  516 . As can be seen in  FIGS. 3 ,  5 , and  6 , the signal on the node C is transferred to a path C-B or to a path C-D-B. 
         [0086]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , the switching element  516  is turned on/off by the test mode signal tmz_ 1 . In the test mode, the test mode signal tmz_ 1  is kept in a low level. In the normal operation mode, the test mode signal tmz_ 1  is kept in a high level. 
         [0087]    In the normal operation mode, the signal on the node C selectively passes through the path C-B. That is, the signal on the node C is transferred to the node B through the switching element  516 , an inverter INVI 51 , and a NAND gate NAND 53 . Here, the NAND gate NAND 53  receives an output signal of the inverter INVI 51  and the signal on the node C. 
         [0088]    In the test mode, however, the signal on the node C is transferred to a node D via the circuit illustrated in  FIG. 6 . The signal transferred to the node D is transferred to the node B through the switching element  516 , the inverter INV 51  and the NAND gate NAND 53 . 
         [0089]      FIG. 6  illustrates an example of the circuit provided between the node C and the node B of  FIG. 5 . The circuit of  FIG. 6  additionally adjusts the delay amount using the address signals in the test mode (in the case that the tmz_ 1  signal is in a low level). 
         [0090]    The circuit of  FIG. 6  includes a plurality of delay units  600 ,  601 ,  602 ,  603 , and  604 , switching elements  611 ,  612 ,  613 ,  614 , and  615 , and conversion units  617  and  618 . Each of the conversion units  617  and  618  is composed of a NAND gate and an inverter connected in series. The signal of the node C is input through input terminals of the conversion unit  617  and  618 . In  FIG. 6 , the total delay time corresponds to a section from the node C to the node D. Here, the nodes C and D illustrated in  FIG. 6  are the same as the nodes C and D illustrated in  FIG. 5 . As will be explained later, a NAND gate NAND 63  of  FIG. 6  receives the signal of the node C through its input terminal. 
         [0091]    In  FIG. 6 , the address signals having passed through the inverters are indicated as address bar signals add_ 0   b  and add_ 1   b . As can be seen in  FIG. 6 , selection signals sel_ 3   z , sel_ 2   z , sel_ 1   z , and sel_ 0   z  for controlling the turn-on/off of the switching elements are made by combination of the address signals. 
         [0092]    As can be seen in  FIG. 6 , if the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are low and low, respectively, the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is enabled to a low level. If the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are low and high, respectively, the selection signal sel_ 2   z  is enabled to a low level. If the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are high and low, respectively, the selection signal sel_ 1   z  is enabled to a low level. If the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are high and high, respectively, the selection signal sel_ 0   z  is enabled to a low level. 
         [0093]    Referring to  FIG. 6 , the turn-on/off operation of the switching elements  611  and  614  is controlled by the selection signals sel_ 2   z  and sel_ 3   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  612  is controlled by the selection signal sel_ 1   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  613  is controlled by the selection signal sel_ 0   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  615  is controlled by the selection signal sel_ 3   z.    
         [0094]    In operation, if the selection signals sel_ 2   z  and sel_ 3   z  are low and low, respectively, an output signal of the NAND gate NAND 51  that receives the selection signals Sel_ 2   z  and sel_ 3   z  becomes high. Accordingly, the switching elements  611  and  614  are turned on, and the signal input through the node C passes through the delay units  600  and  601 , the conversion unit  617 , the delay units  602  and  603 , and the conversion unit  618 . Here, if the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is in a low level, the signal having passed through the delay unit  603  is transferred to the node C through the delay unit  604 , the NAND gate NAND 63 , and the inverter INV 61 . If the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is in a high level, the signal having passed through the delay unit  603  is transferred to the node D through the NAND gate NAND 53  and the inverter INV 51 . Accordingly, if the selection signals sel_ 2   z  and sel_ 3   z  are low and low, respectively, the signal having passed through the delay unit  603  is transferred to the node D through the delay unit  604 , the NAND gate NAND 53  and the inverter INV 51 . 
         [0095]    In operation, if the selection sel_ 1   z  is low, the switching element  612  is turned on. Accordingly, the signal input through the node C passes through the delay units  600  and  601 , the conversion unit  617 , and the delay unit  602 . In this case, because the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is in a high level, the signal having passed through the delay unit  602  is transferred to the node D through the NAND gate NAND 63  and the inverter INV 61 . As is illustrated, the NAND gate NAND 63  receives the signal having passed through the switching element  615  and the signal of the node C. 
         [0096]    In operation, if the selection sel_ 0   z  is low, the switching element  613  is turned on. Accordingly, the signal input through the node C passes through the delay unit  600 . In this case, because the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is in a high level, the signal having passed through the delay unit  600  is transferred to the node D through the NAND gate NAND 63  and the inverter INV 61 . Here, the NAND gate NAND 63  receives the signal having passed through the switching element  615  and the signal of the node C. 
         [0097]    As can be seen in  FIG. 6 , in the test mode, the delay time corresponding to the section from the node C to the node D can be adjusted using the selection signals generated by the combination of the external address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1 . For example, if the test mode signal tmz_ 1  is in a high level, the delay obtained through the path C-D is intercepted. However, if the test mode signal tmz_ 1  is in a low level, the path C-D is open, and thus the delay path C-D and the delay time can be adjusted according to the address signals. 
         [0098]      FIG. 7  is a circuit diagram of an address buffer according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0099]    As illustrated in  FIG. 7 , if the test mode signal tmz_ 2  is enabled to a low level, the addresses applied from the outside are applied to a read/write strobe pulse signal generator. That is, in the test mode, the addresses add_ 0  and add_ 1  are applied from the address buffer illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
         [0100]    Referring to  FIG. 7 , if the test mode signal tmz_ 2  is in a high level (i.e., in a normal operation mode), the addresses applied from the outside are normally applied to the internal circuits that require the address signals. 
         [0101]      FIG. 8  is a circuit diagram of a data output buffer according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0102]    The data output buffer of  FIG. 8  includes a first pull-up driver  800 , a first pull-down driver  820 , a second pull-up driver  810 , a second pull-down driver  830 , pull-up transistors P 81  and P 82 , and pull-down transistors N 81  and N 82 . 
         [0103]    Referring to  FIG. 8 , an output signal of the first pull-up driver  800  is applied to a gate of the pull-up transistor P 81 . An output signal of the first pull-down driver  820  is applied to a gate of the pull-down transistor N 81 . An output signal of the second pull-up driver  810  is applied to a gate of the pull-up transistor P 82 . An output signal of the second pull-down driver  830  is applied to a gate of the pull-down transistor N 82 . The pull-up transistor P 81  and the pull-down transistor N 81  are connected in series between the power supply vddq and ground vssq. Also, the pull-up transistor P 82  and the pull-down transistor N 82  are connected in series between the power supply vddq and ground vssq. 
         [0104]    As can be seen in  FIG. 8 , in the test mode (i.e., when the test mode signal tmz_ 2  is in a low level), the first pull-up driver  800  transfers the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13  to the gate of the pull-down transistor N 81 . Accordingly, through a data pin DQ, the read/write strobe pulse signal can be monitored in a packaged state of the memory device. 
         [0105]    In the normal operation mode (i.e., the test mode signal tmz_ 2  is in a high level), the second pull-up driver  810  transfers an internal data signal up 2   b _d to the gate of the pull-up transistor P 82 . In the same manner, the second pull-down driver  830  transfers an internal data signal dn 2 _d to the gate of the pull-down transistor N 82  in the normal operation mode. Accordingly, the internal data information can be read through the data pin DQ. 
         [0106]    In  FIG. 8 , the reason why two pull-up transistors and two pull-down transistors are provided is that the pull-up and pull-down transistors for driving the data should have a large size and the pull-up and pull-down transistors for driving the read/write strobe pulse signal do not require such a large size. That is, in the test mode, the power consumption is reduced through using of the pull-up and pull-down transistors having a small size. Accordingly, unlike the present invention, it is also possible to use one pull-up transistor and one pull-down transistor. 
         [0107]      FIG. 9  is a waveform diagram explaining the operation of the conventional circuit illustrated in  FIG. 2   a.    
         [0108]    As can be seen in  FIG. 9 , the conventional circuit can just adjust the pulse width of the output signal rdwtstbzjp 13  according to the logic level of the tm_clkpulsez signal. 
         [0109]      FIG. 10  is a waveform diagram of signals used in the circuit according to the present invention. Particularly,  FIG. 10  illustrates the waveforms of the signals used in the circuit of  FIG. 4  such as the clock signal clk_in, the divided signal dlic 4 _ref, the inverted divided signal dlic 4 , the delay signals dlic 4   d   1  and dlic 4   d   2 , the pulse signal cmp, the flag signals flag_ 1  and flag_ 2 , and the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 0   z , dec_ 1   z , and dec_ 2   z.    
         [0110]    Referring to  FIG. 10 , the period of the divided signal dlic 4 _ref is four times as long as that of tCK. The low-level section of the divided signal dlic 4 _ref is the same as tCK. The inverted divided signal dlic 4  has a phase opposite to the divided signal dlic 4 _ref, and is outputted after a predetermined delay time. 
         [0111]    The inverted divided signal dlic 4  is input to the delay unit having a delay time delay_A, and a delayed signal dlic 4   d   1  is output from the delay unit. Additionally, the inverted divided signal dlic 4  is input to the delay unit having a delay time delay_B, and a delayed signal dlic 4   d   2  is output from the delay unit. In this case, the high-level section of the inverted divided signal clic 4  and the delayed signals dlic 4   d   1  and dlic 4   d   2  is the same as tCK. In this case, delay_A&lt;delay_B as can be seen in  FIG. 8 . 
         [0112]    Hereinafter, signal waveforms of  FIG. 10  will be explained in more detail with reference to the circuit of  FIG. 4 . 
         [0113]    If the divided signal dlic 4 _ref, the delayed signal dlic 4   d   1 , and the pulse signal are all in a low level, the initial values on the nodes e, f, g, and h as illustrated in  FIG. 4  are all in a high level. In this state, if the delayed signal dlic 4   d   1  is changed to a high level earlier than the divided signal dlic 4 _ref, the node e is transited to a low level. Then, if the pulse signal is transited to a high level, the node e is transited to a low level. Then, if the pulse signal camp is transited to a high level, the node h is transited to a low level. Accordingly, the flag signal flag_ 1  goes to a high level. 
         [0114]    By contrast, if the divided signal dlic 4 _ref is transited to a high level earlier than the delayed signal dlic 4   d   1 , the node f is transited to a low level. Then, if the pulse signal cmp is transited to a high level, the node g is transited to a low level. Accordingly, the flag signal flag_ 1  goes to a low level. 
         [0115]    As described above, what is important in the circuit of  FIG. 4  is that the logic level of the flag signal flag_ 1  is determined according to which signal between the two signals dlec 4 _ref and dlic 4   d   1  to be compared with each other is first transited to a high level before the pulse signal cmp is transited to a high level. 
         [0116]    The generation of the flag signal flag_ 2  is the same as that of the flag signal flag_ 1 , the additional explanation thereof will be omitted. 
         [0117]    The delay amount indicated as delay_A or delay_B is to judge the frequency range of the clock signal clk_in. For example, as illustrated in  FIG. 10 , the fact that a rising edge of the delayed signal dlic 4   d   1  is earlier than a rising edge of the divided signal dlic 4 -ref indicates that the delay amount delay_A is smaller than the period of the clock signal clk_in. In the same manner, the fact that a rising edge of the delayed signal dlic 4   d   2  is later than a rising edge of the divided signal dlic 4 -ref indicates that the delay amount delay_B is larger than the period of the clock signal clk_in. In this case, it is set that delay_A&lt;tCK&lt;delay_B.  FIG. 10  illustrates the signal waveforms in the case that the above-described condition is satisfied. 
         [0118]      FIG. 11  is a waveform diagram explaining a process that the logic levels of the flag signals flag_ 1  and flag_ 2  are changed according to the frequency of the clock signal clk_in. In  FIG. 11 , the condition of delay_A&lt;delay_B is satisfied. 
         [0119]    As illustrated as a part A in  FIG. 11 , if it is set that tCK&lt;delay_A, the flag signals flag_ 1  and flag_ 2  are all in a low level. 
         [0120]    As illustrated as a part B in  FIG. 11 , if it is set that delay_A&lt;tCK&lt;delay_B, the flag signal flag_ 1  is in a high level and the flag signal flag_ 2  is in a low level. 
         [0121]    As illustrated as a part C in  FIG. 11 , if it is set that tCK&gt;delay_B, the flag signals flag_ 1  and flag_ 2  are all in a high level. 
         [0122]    As described above, it can be seen that the flag signals include the operating frequency information of the memory device. According to the flag signals, the logic levels of the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 0   z , dec_ 1   z , and dec_ 2   z  are determined. Additionally, according to the logic levels of the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 0   z , dec_ 1   z , and dec_ 2   z , the delay path of the circuit as illustrated in  FIG. 5  is determined. 
         [0123]      FIG. 12  is a waveform diagram of the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  produced when the path C-D as illustrated in  FIG. 6  is used. As described above, the circuit of  FIG. 6  is a circuit used when the circuit enters into the test mode according to the test mode signal tmz_ 1  as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . That is, in the test mode, the delay amount can additionally be adjusted by applying the address signals to the circuit in which the frequency path has been determined. 
         [0124]    As was explained in  FIG. 6 , the selection signals sel_ 3   z , sel_ 2   z , sel_ 1   z , and sel_ 0   z  set by the combination of the address signals are illustrated in  FIG. 12 . 
         [0125]    A part A in  FIG. 12  refers to the waveforms of the input signal extyp 8  and the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  when the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 2   z  and dec_ 1   z  are in a high level and the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 0   z  is in a low level. 
         [0126]    A part B in  FIG. 12  refers to the waveforms of the input signal extyp 8  and the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  when the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 0   z  and dec_ 2   z  are in a high level and the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 1   z  is in a low level. 
         [0127]    A part C in  FIG. 12  refers to the waveforms of the input signal extyp 8  and the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  when the operating frequency judgment signals dec_ 0   z  and dec_ 1   z  are in a high level and the operating frequency judgment signal dec_ 2   z  is in a low level. 
         [0128]    As can be known from the part A, B, and C, as the delay path of  FIG. 6  is shortened through the adjustment of the address signals, the pulse width of the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  is reduced. 
         [0129]      FIG. 13  is a waveform diagram of the signals used in the data output buffer of  FIG. 8 . 
         [0130]    As illustrated in  FIG. 13 , in the test mode, the read/write strobe pulse signal is output through the data pins, and in the normal operation mode, the internal data is output through the data pins. 
         [0131]      FIG. 14  is a circuit diagram of the read/write strobe pulse signal generating circuit according to another embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0132]    Unlike the circuit of  FIG. 2 , the pulse width adjustment unit  1400  in the circuit of  FIG. 14  is controlled by the CAS latency and the address signals. 
         [0133]    The circuit of  FIG. 14  includes an input signal receiving unit  1410 , a pulse width adjustment unit  1400 , a signal transfer unit  1420 , a test mode circuit unit  1430 , and an output unit  1440 . 
         [0134]    The input signal receiving unit  1410  includes inverters INV 140  and INV 141  and a NAND gate NAND 140 . The input signal extyp 8  is applied to the inverter INV 140 , and the input signal icasp 6  is applied to the inverter INV 141 . Output signals of the inverters INV 140  and INV 141  are applied to the NAND gate NAND 140 . 
         [0135]    The pulse width adjustment unit  1400  receives an output signal of the NAND gate NAND 140 , the test mode signal tmz_ 1 , the clock signal clk_in, and the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1 . The output signal of the NAND gate NAND 140  is applied to the pulse width adjustment unit  1400  through a node A, and after a predetermined delay time, it is output through a node B. At that time, the pulse width of the signal output to the node B can be changed using the CAS latencies cl 2 , cl 3 , cl 4 , and cl 5 . For reference, the tmz_ 1  signal is the control signal for determining the test mode. If the tmz_ 1  signal is in a low level, the circuit operates in a test mode, while if the signal is in a high level, the circuit operates in a normal operation mode. The term “cl 2 ” denotes that the CAS latency is 2, “cl 3 ” denotes that the CAS latency is 3, “cl 4 ” denotes that the CAS latency is 4, and “cl 5 ” denotes that the CAS latency is 5. Generally, if the operating frequency of the memory device is increased, the CAS latency is also increased. The terms “add_ 0 ” and “add_ 1 ” denote the external address signals that are used in the test mode. Functions performed by the respective signals will be explained in detail. 
         [0136]    The signal transfer unit  1420  receives the signal output from the pulse width adjustment unit, and includes buffering inverters INV 142 , INV 143 , and INV 144 . 
         [0137]    The test mode circuit unit  1430  includes transistors P 141 , P 142  and N 141  and a latch unit  1401 . Specifically, the test mode circuit unit  1430  includes the PMOS transistor P 141  and the NMOS transistor P 142  connected in series between the power supply terminal and the ground terminal, the PMOS transistor P 142  connected between the power supply terminal and a node NODE 141 , and the latch unit  1401  for latching a signal from the node NODE 141 . Here, the term ‘termz’ denotes a signal used in the test mode, and the pwrup signal has already been explained with reference to  FIG. 2   a.    
         [0138]    The output unit  1440  includes a NAND gate  1402  and inverters INV 145  and INV 146 . The NAND gate  1402  receives an output signal of the inverter INV 144 , the termz signal, and an output signal of the latch unit  1401 . An output signal of the NAND gate  1402  is applied to the inverters INV 145  and INV 146  connected in series. An output signal of the inverter INV 146  is the output signal of the output unit  1440 , which is the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13 . 
         [0139]    In the normal operation mode, the input signals extyp 8  and icasp 6  are output as the read/write strobe pulse signal after a predetermined time elapses. In this case, the pulse width adjustment unit  1400  can adjust the pulse width of the read/write strobe pulse signal by adjusting the pulse width of the input signals extyp 8  and icasp 6  applied through a node A using the CAS latency that is changed according to the variation of the operating frequency. 
         [0140]      FIGS. 15 to 16  are circuit diagrams of examples of the pulse width adjustment unit  1400  illustrated in  FIG. 14 . 
         [0141]      FIG. 15  illustrates a circuit that performs a method for controlling the delay time of the pulse width adjustment unit  1400  by the CAS latency signals cl 2 , cl 3 , cl 4 , and cl 5 .  FIG. 16  illustrates a delay circuit, provided between the nodes C and D, for additionally tuning the delay amount determined by the CAS latency signals using the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  when the circuit enters into the test mode. That is, the circuit of  FIG. 16  controls the additional delay amount using the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1 . 
         [0142]    Hereinafter, the circuits of  FIGS. 15 and 16  will be explained in more detail. 
         [0143]    The circuit of  FIG. 15  includes a plurality of delay units  1500 ,  1501 ,  1502 ,  1503 , and  1504  and switching elements  1511 ,  1512 ,  1513 ,  1514 ,  1515 , and  1516  controlled by the CAS latency signals cl 2 , cl 3 , cl 4 , and cl 5 . Each of modulation units  1517  and  1518  is composed of a NAND gate and an inverter connected in series. 
         [0144]    In  FIG. 15 , the total delay time corresponds to a section from the node A to the node B. Here, the nodes A and B illustrated in  FIG. 15  are the same as the nodes A and B illustrated in  FIG. 14 . 
         [0145]    In  FIG. 15 , a signal input through the node A of  FIG. 15  is an output signal of the input signal receiving unit  1410 , i.e., the extyp 8  signal or the icasp 6  signal. 
         [0146]    Referring to  FIG. 15 , the turn-on/off operation of the switching elements  1511  and  1514  is controlled by the CAS latency signals cl 2   z  and cl 3   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  1512  is controlled by the CAS latency signal cl 4   z , and the turn-on/off operation of the switching element  1515  is controlled by the GAS latency signal cl 5   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  1516  is controlled by the test mode signal tmz_ 1 . 
         [0147]    In operation, if the CAS latency is 2 or 3 (i.e., if cl 2  or cl 3  is in a high level), an output signal of a NAND gate NAND 151  that receives the CAS latency signal clz 2  and clz 3  is in a high level, and thus the switching element  1511  and  1514  are turned on. Accordingly, the signal input through the node A passes through delay units  1500  and  1501 , a conversion unit  1517 , delay units  1502  and  1503 , and a modulation unit  1518 . Here, the switching element  1515  is controlled by the CAS latency cl 2   z . Accordingly, if the CAS latency cl 2   z  is in a low level, the signal having passed through the switch element  1514  is transferred to a node C via the delay unit  1504 . However, if the CAS latency cl 2   z  is disabled, the signal having passed through the switching element  1514  is directly transferred to the node C. 
         [0148]    In operation, if the CAS latency is 4 (i.e., if cl 4  is in a high level), the switching element  1512  is turned on. Accordingly, the signal input through the node A passes through the delay units  1500  and  1501 , the conversion unit  1517 , and the delay unit  1502 . Here, because the CAS latency is 4, the signal having passed through the delay unit  1502  cannot pass through the delay unit. Accordingly, the signal having passed through the delay unit  1512  is directly transferred to the node C. 
         [0149]    In operation, if the CAS latency is 5 (i.e., if cl 5  is in a high level), the switching element  1513  is turned on. Accordingly, the signal input through the node A is directly transferred to the C node after passing through the delay units  1500  and  1501 . 
         [0150]    As described above, as the number of CAS latencies is increased (i.e., as the operating frequency of the memory device is increased), the delay amount obtained through the path from the node A to the node C is reduced. 
         [0151]    The signal on the node C is transferred to the node B through the switching element  1516 . The switching element  1516  is turned on/off by the test mode signal tmz_ 1 . In the test mode, the test mode signal tmz_ 1  is kept in a low level. In the normal operation mode, the test mode signal tmz_ 1  is kept in a high level. 
         [0152]    In the normal operation mode, the signal on the node C is transferred to the node B after passing through the switching element  1516 , the inverter INV 151 , and the NAND gate NAND 153 . 
         [0153]    In the test mode, however, the signal on the node C is outputted to the node D via the circuit illustrated in FIG.  16 , and then transferred to the node B through the switching element  1516 , the inverter INV 151  and the NAND gate NAND 153 . The nodes C and D as illustrated in  FIG. 15  are the same as the nodes C and D as illustrated in  FIG. 16 . That is, the circuit of  FIG. 16  is a circuit provided between the nodes C and D of  FIG. 15 . 
         [0154]      FIG. 16  illustrates an example of the circuit provided between the nodes C and D of  FIG. 15 . The circuit of  FIG. 16  additionally adjusts the delay amount using the address signals in the test mode. 
         [0155]    The circuit of  FIG. 16  includes a plurality of delay units  1600 ,  1601 ,  1602 ,  1603 , and  1604 , switching elements  1611 ,  1612 ,  1613 ,  1614 , and  1615  controlled by the address signals, and conversion units  1617  and  1618 . In  FIG. 16 , the total delay time corresponds to a section from the node C to the node D. Here, the nodes C and D illustrated in  FIG. 16  are the same as the nodes C and D illustrated in  FIG. 15 . 
         [0156]    In  FIG. 16 , the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  having passed through the inverters are indicated as address bar signals add_ 0   b  and add_ 1   b . As can be seen in  FIG. 16 , selection signals sel_ 3   z , sel_ 2   z , sel_ 1   z , and sel_ 0   z  for controlling the turn-on/off of the switching elements are made by combination of the address signals. 
         [0157]    As can be seen in  FIG. 16 , if the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are low and low, respectively, the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is enabled to a low level. If the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are low and high, respectively, the selection signal sel_ 2   z  is enabled to a low level. If the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are high and low, respectively, the selection signal sel_ 1   z  is enabled to a low level. If the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are high and high, respectively, the selection signal sel_ 0   z  is enabled to a low level. 
         [0158]    Referring to  FIG. 16 , the turn-on/off operation of the switching elements  1611  and  1614  is controlled by the selection signals sel_ 2   z  and sel_ 3   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  1612  is controlled by the selection signal sel_ 1   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  1613  is controlled by the selection signal sel_ 0   z . The turn-on/off operation of the switching element  1615  is controlled by the selection signal sel_ 3   z.    
         [0159]    In operation, if the selection signals sel_ 2   z  and sel_ 3   z  are low and low, respectively, an output signal of the NAND gate NAND 161  that receives the selection signals Sel_ 2   z  and sel_ 3   z  becomes high. Accordingly, the switching elements  1611  and  1614  are turned on, and the signal input through the node C passes through the delay units  1600  and  1601 , the conversion unit  1617 , the delay units  1602  and  1603 , and the conversion unit  1618 . Here, if the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is in a low level, the signal having passed through the delay unit  1603  is transferred to the node D through the delay unit  1604 , the NAND gate NAND 163 , and the inverter INV 161 . If the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is in a high level, the signal having passed through the delay unit  1603  is transferred to the node D through the NAND gate NAND 163  and the inverter INV 161 . Accordingly, if the selection signals sel_ 2   z  and sel_ 3   z  are low and low, respectively, the signal having passed through the delay unit  1603  is transferred to the node D through the delay unit  1604 , the NAND gate NAND 163  and the inverter INV 161 . 
         [0160]    In operation, if the selection sel_ 1   z  is low, the switching element  1612  is turned on. Accordingly, the signal input through the node C passes through the delay units  1600  and  1601 , the conversion unit  1617 , and the delay unit  1602 . In this case, because the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is in a high level, the signal having passed through the delay unit  1602  is directly transferred to the node D through the NAND gate NAND 163  and the inverter INV 161 . 
         [0161]    In operation, if the selection sel_ 0   z  is low, the switching element  1613  is turned on. Accordingly, the signal input through the node C passes through the delay unit  1600 . In this case, because the selection signal sel_ 3   z  is in a high level, the signal having passed through the delay unit  1600  is transferred to the node D through the NAND gate NAND 163  and the inverter INV 161 . 
         [0162]    As can be seen in  FIG. 16 , in the test mode, the delay time corresponding to the section from the node C to the node D can be adjusted using the selection signals generated by the combination of the external address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1 . 
         [0163]      FIG. 17  is a circuit diagram of an address buffer according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0164]    In  FIG. 17 , the term “vref” denotes a reference voltage, “vddq” a power supply, and “vssq” a ground. As illustrated in  FIG. 7 , in the test mode (i.e., if the test mode signal tmz_ 2  enabled to a low level), the addresses add_ 0  and add_ 1  applied from the outside are applied to the circuit of  FIG. 14 . That is, the addresses add_ 0  and add_ 1  illustrated in  FIG. 14  are the address signals output from the address buffer illustrated in  FIG. 17 . 
         [0165]    In the normal operation mode (i.e., if the test mode signal tmz_ 2  is in a high level), the addresses applied from the outside are normally applied to the internal circuits that require the address signals. 
         [0166]      FIG. 18  is a circuit diagram of a data output buffer according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         [0167]    In  FIG. 18 , the terms “up” and “dnb” denote data signals. The term “upb” is an inverted signal of the “up” signal, and the term “dn” is an inverted signal of the “dnb” signal. The term “upb_d” is a signal applied to a gate of a pull-up transistor P 18 , and “dn_d” is a signal applied to a gate of a pull-down transistor N 18 . The term “DQ” denotes a data pad or a data pin. 
         [0168]    As shown in  FIG. 18 , in the test mode (i.e., when the test mode signal tmz_ 2  is in a low level), the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13  that is the output signal of the circuit of  FIG. 14  is applied to the gates of the pull-up and pull-down transistors P 18  and N 18 . Accordingly, in the test mode, the read/write strobe pulse signal can be monitored in a packaged state of the memory device through the data pin DQ. 
         [0169]    In the normal operation mode (i.e., the test mode signal tmz_ 2  is in a high level), the internal data upb and dn of the memory device are applied to the gates of the pull-up and pull-down transistors P 18  and N 18 . Accordingly, the data output buffer outputs the internal data of the memory device to the outside through the data pin DQ. 
         [0170]      FIG. 19  is a waveform diagram of the output signals of the conventional circuit illustrated in  FIG. 2   a.    
         [0171]    As can be seen in  FIG. 19 , the conventional circuit can just adjust the pulse width of the output signal rdwtstbzjp 13  according to the logic level of the tm_clkpulsez signal. 
         [0172]      FIG. 20  is a waveform diagram of signals used in the circuit of  FIG. 14  according to the present invention. In  FIG. 20 , the pulse width change of the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  according to the variation of the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  in a state that the CAS latency is fixed in the text mode is illustrated. 
         [0173]    As illustrated in  FIG. 20 , as the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are changed (0,0), (0,1), (1,0), and then (1,1) in order, the pulse width of the output signal rewtstbzp 13  is reduced. This can clearly be recognized with reference to  FIGS. 15 and 16 . 
         [0174]      FIG. 21  is a waveform diagram of other signals used in the circuit illustrated in  FIG. 14  according to the present invention. In  FIG. 21 , the pulse width change of the output signal according to the change of the CAS latency in the normal operation mode (i.e., when the test mode signal tmz_ 1  is in a high level) is illustrated. 
         [0175]    As illustrated in  FIG. 21 , if the CAS latency is increased in correspondence to the increase of the operating frequency, the pulse width of the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  is reduced. 
         [0176]      FIG. 22  is a waveform diagram of still other signals used in the circuit illustrated in  FIG. 14  according to the present invention. In  FIG. 22 , the change of the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  according to the change of the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  and the CAS latency in the test mode is illustrated. 
         [0177]    As illustrated in  FIG. 22 , if the CAS latency is constant, the pulse width of the output signal rewtstbzp 13  is reduced as the address signals add_ 0  and add_ 1  are changed (0,0), (0,1), (1,0), and then (1,1) in order. Additionally, in the case that the address signals are fixed and the CAS latency is increased, the pulse width of the output signal rdwtstbzp 13  is reduced. Accordingly, if the operating frequency of the memory device is increased, the enabled section of the signal Yi that is controlled by the output signal rdwtstbzjp 13  can also be reduced. 
         [0178]      FIG. 23  is a waveform diagram of signals used in the data output buffer of  FIG. 18 . As illustrated in  FIG. 23 , the read/write strobe pulse signal is output through the data pin in the test mode, and the internal data is output through the data pin in the normal operation mode. 
         [0179]    As described above, according to the present invention, the pulse width of the read/write strobe pulse signal rdwtstbzp 13  can be adjusted even if the CAS latency is changed due to the change of the operating frequency of the memory device or the driving voltage of the memory device is changed. 
         [0180]    If the circuit and the method according to the present invention are used, the pulse width of the signal Yi can automatically be adjusted, and thus an FIB work for the delay tuning whenever the operating frequency is changed is not required. This saves the cost and time in comparison to the conventional circuit. 
         [0181]    Additionally, using the data output buffer according to the present invention in the test mode, the read/write strobe pulse signal generated inside the memory device can be monitored from the outside. 
         [0182]    The circuit and method according to the present invention can reduce the cost and time required for the FIB work for the delay time adjustment according to the change of the operating voltage due to the change of the operating frequency and the influence of the external environment. 
         [0183]    Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described for illustrative purposes, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications, additions and substitutions are possible, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention as disclosed in the accompanying claims.