Low-voltage fuse read circuit
Abstract:
Circuits and methods for reading fusible links that allows use of low-voltage logic circuitry utilizing devices that may have a high-voltage stand-off capability. Embodiments provide predictable operation that is less susceptible to PVT variations, allow the use of arrays of fuses that may be scaled to relatively large memory sizes, uses little integrated circuit area, and do not require extra pins for operation. Embodiments utilize a latch circuit and voltage dividers to generate a reference voltage VREF and a fuse voltage VFUSE, and then compares and latches the greater of those voltages. The circuitry does not require any more supply voltage than is needed to turn ON input pass transistors to the latch at a slightly higher voltage (VTH) than VREF. Since VREF may be about 0.1V, that turn-ON voltage may be as low as about 0.1V+VTH, and thus would be less than a VDD_MIN of about 1V.
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