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Product Briefing Outline: Oxford Instruments has introduced its new TEOS delivery module for plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD) of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) in its ‘Plasmalab' range of deposition tools. TEOS offers an alternative PECVD precursor to the commonly-used silane for applications such as photonics and dielectric layers in which high quality, conformal deposition of SiO₂ is required, according to the company.  The company has already received its first order for a complete PlasmalabSystem133 TEOS system incorporating the new module from a prestigious Chinese institute.

Problem: Though silane is commonly used in IC fabrication, special safety measures are required due to its flammability. Lowering costs while maintaining process yields and safety is required with new alternative systems.

Solution: The new TEOS delivery module is claimed to be easy to access and change, with an optional glovebox fitting onto the module for improved safety, and the ability to connect the module into a cleanroom extraction system. The module may be either directly mounted onto the PlasmalabSystem100 or PlasmalabSystem133 process tool, or wall-mounted, and features optimised heated delivery lines to ensure efficient, high-uniformity SiO₂ PECVD processes. Combined with Oxford Instruments' high/low frequency plasma power mixing to control the stress of the deposited film and select between tensile, compressive and low-stress films, the new integrated TEOS system offers an improved SiO₂ deposition solution.

Applications: (PECVD) of silicon dioxide (SiO2).

Platform: The new TEOS delivery module for plasma-enhanced chemical vapour deposition (PECVD) of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) is designed for its ‘Plasmalab' System100 and ‘Plasmalab' System133 deposition tools.

Availability: January 2007 onwards.