A new differential p-channel logic-compatible multiple-time programmable (MTP) memory cell with self-recovery operation

Abstract

This letter presents a novel differential p-channel logic-compatible multiple-time programmable (MTP) memory cell. This MTP cell has a pair of floating gates, and performs differential read to increase the on/off window. Additionally, a novel self-recovery operation is implemented to boost the floating gate level, thus avoiding the charge-loss problem due to the thin gate oxide requirement in advance logic nonvolatile memory applications. This differential cell with its self-recovery operation is a very promising MTP solution for gate oxide layer with a 70 Å thickness, and can be implemented by 3.3 V I/O in 90 nm and the advanced CMOS logic processes such as 45 nm and beyond. © 2011 IEEE.