Integrated circuits having single state memory reference cells and methods for operating the same

Abstract

Integrated circuits including memory cells and methods for operating memory cells are provided. In an embodiment, a method is provided for operating a memory including a plurality of operational memory cells. The method includes providing a word line voltage on a selected word line corresponding to a selected operational memory cell of the plurality of operational memory cells and to a corresponding reference memory cell. The method includes applying an operational bias current on an operational bit line to the selected operational memory cell. Also, the method includes scanning a reference bias current from a first value to a second value on a reference bit line to the reference memory cell. Further, the method includes comparing reference cell currents on the reference bit line with an operational cell current on the operational bit line to determine a logic state of the selected operational memory cell.