Skip to main navigation Skip to search Skip to main content

NC-SRAM - A low-leakage memory circuit for ultra deep submicron designs

  • SUNY Buffalo

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

24 Scopus citations

Abstract

In this paper, we present a novel N-controlled SRAM (NC-SRAM) design for reducing the subthreshold leakage in cache and embedded memories using a dual-Vt process. We combine the use of high Vt transistors in the leakage path and gating the supply voltage to reduce leakage in unused SRAM cells. This circuit-level technique overcomes the potential limitations in the existing techniques for reducing leakage in memory circuits. In this design, the data stored in the cell is retained even when the memory is put in the stand-by mode, with no additional complexity or circuit overhead. Simulation results indicate that NC-SRAM has better leakage savings as compared to other techniques. In addition, our results on 100 nm and 70 nm processes show 21% and 18% reduction in total power and 77% and55 % reduction in leakage power, respectively, with very minimal impact on performance and area, as compared to a conventional 6T-SRAM.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationProceedings - IEEE International SOC Conference, SOCC 2003
EditorsDong S. Ha, Richard Auletta, John Chickanosky
PublisherInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc.
Pages3-6
Number of pages4
ISBN (Electronic)0780381823, 9780780381827
DOIs
StatePublished - 2003
EventIEEE International SOC Conference, SOCC 2003 - Portland, United States
Duration: Sep 17 2003Sep 20 2003

Publication series

NameProceedings - IEEE International SOC Conference, SOCC 2003

Conference

ConferenceIEEE International SOC Conference, SOCC 2003
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityPortland
Period09/17/0309/20/03

Keywords

  • Capacitance
  • Circuits
  • Computer science
  • Design engineering
  • Energy consumption
  • Power dissipation
  • Power system reliability
  • Random access memory
  • Subthreshold current
  • Threshold voltage

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'NC-SRAM - A low-leakage memory circuit for ultra deep submicron designs'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this