Patent ID: 11948630

Abstract:
Memory cells in a memory array may be configured to include a fuse that will blow in the case of a defective cell. In a 1T-1R memory cell, a fuse may be placed in series with the select element and/or the memory element to counteract a short-circuit in either of these elements. A fuse may be formed by selectively etching a phase-change material (PCM) between two electrodes to leave a cavity. When sufficient energy is applied to the PCM material, the PCM filament will break its crystalline structure and be distributed within the cavity. This prevents the PCM material from recrystallizing. Another fuse may be formed by depositing a material between two electrodes that is doped with mobile ions. When subjected to an excessive signal, the resulting electric field may push these ions permanently towards one of the electrodes, thereby permanently destroying the conductive pathway.