Asymmetric 6T SRAM with Two-phase Write and Split Bitline Differential Sensing for Low Voltage Operation

Satyanand Nalam1,  Vikas Chandra2,  Cezary Pietrzyk2,  Robert Aitken2,  Benton Calhoun1
1University of Virginia, 2ARM


Abstract

This paper describes an asymmetric single-ended 6T SRAM bitcell that improves both Read Static Noise Margin (RSNM) and Write Noise Margin (WNM) for the same bitcell area as a conventional symmetric 6T. This improvement is achieved using a single VDD, without employing assist techniques that require multiple voltages. The improvement in noise margins significantly improves the low-voltage robustness and consequently the minimum operating voltage of the SRAM (Vmin). Single-ended write is accomplished in two phases using dual word-lines. Finally, we propose a differential sensing scheme using a weak reference cell to read the single-ended 6T. A combination of reduced bitline capacitance and increased drive current ensure read delay comparable to conventional differential sensing, for the same bitcell area.