A method and apparatus for an integrated circuit with programmable memory cells which are arranged between a first and a second conductor for supplying first and second voltage is provided. A control circuit is arranged between the memory cells and the second conductor. The control circuit controls a change time during which at least one of the memory cells is supplied with a changing current from the second supply changing a state of the memory cell. The control circuit senses the state of the memory cell and stops the erasing current when the memory cell is in a changed state. Furthermore an embodiment refers to a data system with a programmable memory and a method of operating an integrated circuit. Another embodiment refers to a method of operating an integrated circuit.