Importance

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Abstract

A bootstrap circuit suitable for use in driving the word line of a FRAM.RTM. memory circuit is energized by a VDD power supply voltage. The bootstrap circuit includes a first N-channel MOS transistor wherein the source/drain forms the input of the circuit. A second N-channel MOS transistor is included wherein one of the source/drains receives a clock signal, and the other source/drain forms the output, which drives the word line. The gate of the second transistor is coupled to the other source/drain of the first transistor. The bootstrap circuit includes further circuitry for generating a voltage greater tan the VDD power supply voltage that is coupled to the gate of the first transistor. A capacitor or capacitor-connected transistor is coupled between the input and the gate of the first transistor, and a third transistor has one source/drain coupled to the gate of the first transistor, and the other source/drain receives a control signal, and the gate is coupled to the VDD power supply. The bootstrap circuit is operational even for VDD power supply voltages less than or equal to 3.3 volts.

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First Claim