Location History:
- Meridan, ID (US) (2006)
- Meridian, ID (US) (1999 - 2007)
Company Filing History:
Years Active: 1999-2007
Title: **William N. Thompson: Innovator in Memory Cell Technology**
Introduction
William N. Thompson is a prominent inventor based in Meridian, Idaho, with an impressive portfolio of 27 patents to his name. His work primarily focuses on innovations in memory technology and impedance matching, which significantly contribute to advancements in electronic device performance.
Latest Patents
Among his latest patents is a novel solution for latch-up prevention in SRAM memory cells. This innovative design features a pair of cross-coupled CMOS inverters, where the pull-up transistors' sources are connected to a Vthrough parasitic resistance in the substrate. This ingenious arrangement ensures that the source of the p-type pull-up transistor remains at a potential level that prevents the emitter-base junction of the parasitic PNP transistor from becoming forward biased, thereby averting latch-up occurrences.
Another noteworthy invention is the variable resistance circuit, which provides a method for determining an unknown value from within a specified range. This breakthrough divides the range into weighted subranges and utilizes a systematic search process with simple comparisons to identify the matching target value. Its application extends to impedance matching in integrated circuits, automatically adjusting output impedance to align with the load it drives.
Career Highlights
William currently serves at Micron Technology Incorporated, a leading company in memory and storage solutions. His work has not only advanced the understanding of memory cell architecture but also contributed to the efficiency of electronic devices used in various applications.
Collaborations
Throughout his career, William has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including John David Porter and Larren Gene Weber. These partnerships have fostered an environment of innovation and collective ingenuity, further propelling advancements in semiconductor technology.
Conclusion
William N. Thompson's contributions to the field of electronics through his inventive solutions and patents exemplify the spirit of innovation. His relentless pursuit of enhancing memory technology and impedance matching positions him as a key figure in the ongoing evolution of electronic devices, marking him as a notable inventor in the industry.