A 512kB Embedded Phase Change Memory with 416kB/s Write Throughput at 100μA Cell Write Current

An experimental 512kB embedded PCM uses a current-saving architecture in a 0.13μm 1.5V CMOS. The write scheme features a low-write-current resistive device and achieves 416kB/s write-throughput at 100muA cell current. A charge-transfer direct-sense scheme has a 16b parallel read access time of 9.9ns in an array drawing 280μA. A standby voltage scheme suppresses leakage current in the cell current path and increases the measured PCM cell resistance from 3 to 33MΩ.