Thermo Scientific system helps isolate electrical Faults
Meridian S all-in-one system includes both photon emission and static laser stimulation applications
Thermo Fisher Scientific, based in Hillsboro, Oregon, has introduced the Meridian S inverted Static Optical Fault Isolation (OFI) system, to allow semiconductor failure analysis labs to future-proof their operations.
Semiconductor failure analysis engineers and technicians can isolate electrical faults that cause semiconductor devices to fail at end-of-line test. These defects, such as metal shorts, opens, and transistor-level leakage, are localised in the failure analysis workflow to troubleshoot process or design failures and increase overall device manufacturing yield.
This all-in-one system includes both photon emission and static laser stimulation applications, and is a cost-effective, high-sensitivity solution for localising electrical failures in semiconductor devices.
The addition of Meridian S also provides semiconductor manufacturers with a reliable static OFI tool that delivers performance. Multiple upgrade paths are available, bringing the industry-leading capabilities of dynamic OFI and high sensitivity emission as customers’ lab needs develop.
“Meridian S offers high optical resolution and enhanced sensitivity with a robust upgrade path for future expansion, all in a single tool,” said Debbora Ahlgren, senior director, materials and structural analysis, Thermo Fisher Scientific. “The result is a high return on investment and a concrete roadmap as customers increase their OFI capabilities.”
Meridian S offers several benefits designed to maximise performance:
- High-sensitivity probing: Meridian S includes FDx with Active Probe, a next-generation Static Laser Simulation (SLS) amplifier for applications such as Optical Beam Induced Resistance Change (OBIRCH) failure analysis.
- Static OFI analysis on a broader range of devices and package types: Meridian S offers both topside probing for flip chip packages and wafer pieces as well as - backside probing for conventionally packaged devices.
- Easy-to-use software: Meridian S is optimized to work with the proven Sierra software platform for enhanced ease of use and offers a number of features, including Live Emission mode which allows users to view photon emission signatures emerge in real-time.
- Laser marker option for physical markings of fault locations: Meridian S provides a laser marker option with an accuracy level better than 2 microns.
Meridian S will ship in the fourth quarter of 2019.
