Patent ID: 7031184

Claim:
A magnetic random access memory comprising: memory cells which are connected in parallel with each other and use a magnetoresistive effect; a first data transfer line which is connected to one terminal of each of said memory cells and extends in a first direction; a second data transfer line which is connected to the other terminal of each of said memory cells and extends in the first direction; first and second write bit line drivers/sinkers which supply a write current to said first data transfer line or absorb the write current from said first data transfer line; a first switch connected between one end of said first data transfer line and said first write bit line driver/sinker; a second switch connected between the other end of said first data transfer line and said second write bit line driver/sinker; a read circuit which supplies a read current to said first and second data transfer lines; and write word lines extending in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction.