Disclosed is a phase-changeable memory device and a related method of
reading data. The memory device is comprised of memory cells, a high
voltage circuit, a precharging circuit, a bias circuit, and a sense
amplifier. Each memory cell includes a phase-changeable material and a
diode connected to a bitline. The high voltage circuit provides a high
voltage from a power source. The precharging circuit raises the bitline
up to the high voltage after charging the bitline up to the power source
voltage. The bias circuit supplies a read current to the bitline by means
of the high voltage. The sense amplifier compares a voltage of the
bitline with a reference voltage by means of the high voltage, and reads
data from the memory cell. The memory device is able to reduce the burden
on the high voltage circuit during the precharging operation, thus
assuring a sufficient sensing margin during the sensing operation.