Context protection for a column interleaved memory

A semiconductor memory layout comprising:

• a memory cell array having a plurality of semiconductor memory cells being arranged in rows and columns;
• a plurality of bit lines coupled to the semiconductor memory cells arranged in columns and a plurality of word lines coupled to the semiconductor memory cells arranged in rows;
• a set of circuit structures, each comprising column input/output circuits;
• and
• a set of replicas, that are non-functional, corresponding to the column input/output circuits, the set of replicas configured to fill an empty space next to the column input/output circuits, wherein the set of replicas provide context protection for the column input/output circuits.

A method for providing context protection in a semiconductor memory cell, the method comprising:

• creating column input/output circuits for a given MUX factor during memory build;
• reusing column input/output circuits across a higher MUX factor;
• creating a set of replicas of the column input/output circuits in an empty space, the empty space being created by reusing column input/output circuits;
• and
• inactivating the set of replicas such that context protection is provided for the column input/output circuits.