Charge Trap Transistor (CTT): An embedded fully logic-compatible multiple-time programmable non-volatile memory element for high-k-metal-gate CMOS technologies

Abstract

The availability of on-chip non-volatile memory for advanced high-k-metal-gate CMOS technology nodes has been limited due to integration and scaling challenges as well as operational voltage incompatibilities, while its need continues to grow rapidly in modern high-performance systems. By exploiting intrinsic device self-heating enhanced charge trapping in as fabricated high-k-metal-gate logic devices, we introduce a unique multiple-time programmable embedded non-volatile memory element, called the 'charge trap transistor' (CTT), for high-k-metal-gate CMOS technologies. Functionality and feasibility of using CTT memory devices have been demonstrated on 22 nm planar and 14 nm FinFET technology platforms, including fully functional product prototype memory arrays. These transistor memory devices offer high density (∼ 0.144μm2/bit for 22 nm and ∼ 0.082μm2/bit for 14 nm technology), logic voltage compatible and low peak power operation (4mW), and excellent retention for a fully integrated and scalable embedded non-volatile memory without added process complexity or masks.