Multi-pixel methods and apparatus for analysis of defect information from test structures on semiconductor devices

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United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 6771806
SERIAL NO

09648381

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ATTORNEY / AGENT: (SPONSORED)

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Abstract

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Disclosed is a method for detecting electrical defects on test structures of a semiconductor die. The test structures includes a plurality of electrically-isolated test structures and a plurality of non-electrically-isolated test structures. The test structures each has a portion located partially within a scan area. The portion of the test structures located within the scan area is scanned to obtain voltage contrast images of the test structures' portions. In a multi-pixel processor, the obtained voltage contrast images are analyzed to determine whether there are defects present within the test structures. In a preferred embodiment, the multi-pixel processor operates with pixel resolution sizes in a range of about 25 nm to 200 nm. In another aspect, the processor operates with a pixel size nominally equivalent to two times a width of the test structure's line width to maximize throughput at optimal signal to noise sensitivity. A computer readable medium having programming instructions for performing the above described methods is also disclosed.

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Patent Owner(s)

  • KLA-TENCOR CORPORATION

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Adler, David L San Jose, CA 65 2028
Satya, Akella V S Milpitas, CA 20 1765
Tsai, Bin-Ming Benjamin Saratoga, CA 44 1409
Walker, David J Sunol, CA 60 1857

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