Selective Precharge for Power Savings

摘要

Embodiments of a memory device are disclosed that may allow for detecting the opportunity for energy savings and implementing the energy savings for each access to the memory device. The memory device may include a plurality of columns, an address comparator, and a timing and control circuit. Each of the plurality of columns may include a plurality of data storage cells coupled to a common data line, and a pre-charge circuit that may be configured to charge the common data line to a pre-determined voltage. The address comparator may be configured to compare an address value to a previous address value, and generate an output dependent upon the comparison. The timing and control circuit may then selectively disable pre-charge circuits in the plurality of columns dependent upon the generated output of the address comparator.

主权项

1. A memory circuit, comprising:
a plurality of columns, wherein each column comprises:
a plurality of data storage cells wherein each of the data storage cells is coupled to a common data line; anda pre-charge circuit configured to charge the common data line to a pre-determined voltage level; an address comparator circuit configured to compare an address value to a previous address value and generate an address match signal dependent upon the comparison; and a timing and control circuit coupled to the address comparator circuit and configured to disable at least one pre-charge circuit dependent upon the address match signal.