US Patent 8004926 System and method for memory array decoding

A memory system includes Q memory blocks that each include M memory sub-blocks. The memory system also includes Q word line decoders that each are associated with a different one of the Q memory blocks. The memory system also includes a bit line decoder and Q×M switch modules. Each Q×M switch module selectively controls access to up to J of the M memory sub-blocks of the Q memory blocks. The Q word line decoders and the bit line decoder access less than M memory sub-blocks in at least two of the Q memory blocks during one of a read and write operation. M and Q are integers greater than 1, and J is an integer greater than or equal to 1.