SK Hynix Inc. Files Patent Application for Semiconductor Memory Device

Strategic Insights -

SK Hynix Inc. has filed a patent application for a semiconductor memory device that utilizes a unique operating method to improve program verification efficiency. The proposed device includes a memory cell array, a peripheral circuit, and a group information storage unit. The control logic of the device sets a target level for the program verify operation based on offset information corresponding to a word line group or a memory string group. This patent application builds on existing flash memory technology and aims to enhance its write and read speeds.

Key Takeaways:

  • The proposed semiconductor memory device features a memory cell array, a peripheral circuit, and a group information storage unit.
  • The device utilizes a control logic that sets a target level for the program verify operation based on offset information corresponding to a word line group or a memory string group.
  • The group information storage unit stores offset information corresponding to memory block groups, word line groups, and memory string groups.
  • The control logic sets the target level corresponding to a program state to be programmed in the program verify operation by maintaining, increasing or decreasing the target level, based on the offset information.
  • The target level is set to be read and programmed to memory cells included in the selected page.
  • The described semiconductor memory device is intended to improve the efficiency of the program verify operation by reducing the number of re-programming operations required.

Statistics:

  • The proposed semiconductor memory device features a memory cell array that stores offset information in at least one memory block defined as a system block or a content addressable memory (CAM) block.
  • The group information storage unit stores first offset information corresponding to each memory block group, second offset information corresponding to each word line group, and third offset information corresponding to each memory string group.
  • The control logic sets the target level corresponding to a program state to be programmed in the program verify operation by maintaining, increasing or decreasing the target level, based on the offset information.
  • The semiconductor memory device has a method of operating a semiconductor memory device that receives a program command, an address, and program data with the semiconductor memory device.

Sources:

  • HAN, Yong. Semiconductor Memory Device And Operating Method Of The Semiconductor Memory Device. U.S. Patent Application Number 20250322893, filed July 24, 2024 and posted October 16, 2025.
  • Patent URL (for desktop use only): https://ppubs.uspto.gov/pubwebapp/external.html?q=(20250322893)&db=US-PGPUB&type=ids