Broadcom Corporation

Lsi Logic Corporation

Brandon Bartz

Myron Buer

Carl A Monzel

Dechang Sun

Decoder circuits capable of decoding encoded ROM memory are provided. Embodiments provide several improvements over prior solutions which rely primarily on CMOS logic (e.g., inverters). For example, embodiments provide faster decoding by limiting the number of decoding stages to a single stage. Further, embodiments allow the use of partial swing (as opposed to full swing) on the bit lines, which results in significant power reduction. This, in turn, results in reduced amounts of capacitor discharges when reading the data.

Encoded read-only memory (ROM) decoder

A process monitor circuit useful for integrated circuit designs to provide manufacturing process tests for SRAM circuit structures incorporated in an integrated circuit design. In one aspect of the invention, the process monitor cell includes a plurality of SRAM circuit cells chained together in a manner to permit testing of a desired range of SRAM transistor power and a desired range of associated propagation delays. The process monitor cell thereby provides an accurate estimate of the quality of the fabrication process used to generate other functional SRAM cells within the integrated circuit design.

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Bloomington, MN, United States of America

Brandon Bartz