Programming of programmable resistive memory devices

Apparatus for programming selected memory devices in a resistive cross point array of programmable resistive memory devices, the apparatus comprising:

• a pre-amplifier for applying a programming potential to a selected one of the memory devices while applying an array potential to other ones of the memory devices, the array and programming potentials being about equal, whereby equipotential isolation of the selected memory device is achieved;
• and
• a circuit for turning off the programming potential when a sense current flowing through the selected memory device indicates that the selected memory device has been programmed.