Low-power sense amplifier for memory

Abstract

A low-power sense amplifier for a memory is provided, which includes a differential amplifier for sensing and amplifying a weak voltage signal of a bit line connected to a memory cell, and a latch amplifier for storing data inputted thereto, the latch amplifier being operated by the output signal of the differential amplifier, the sense amplifier including a bias means constructed of transistors which are included in the differential amplifier and turned on or turned off by a control signal, the transistors providing a load resistor component required for driving the differential amplifier when it is turned on, and a cutoff means for turning off the transistors constructing the bias means to stop the operation of the differential amplifier when there is a first logic state signal among the output signals of the latch amplifier. Accordingly, the low-power sense amplifier for a memory can perform high-speed sense amplification of bit line signal and prevent unnecessary power consumption.