Memory architecture with multi-bank memory cell array accessed by local drive circuit within memory bank

Abstract

A memory architecture includes K first control lines, M groups of second control lines and a memory cell array. K and M are positive integers. Each group of second control lines includes at least one second control line. The memory cell array includes M memory banks. Each memory bank is coupled to the K first control lines. The M memory banks are selected according to M bank select signals respectively so as to receive a shared set of first control signals through the K first control lines. The M memory banks are coupled to the M groups of second control lines respectively, and receive independent M sets of second control signals through the M groups of second control lines respectively. Each memory bank performs one of a column select operation and a sense amplification operation according to the set of first control signals and a set of second control signals.