What is STI (Shallow Trench Isolation), and why do we need it in semiconductor devices?
In semiconductor manufacturing, you might have come across the term “STI” or Shallow Trench Isolation. I want to share some thoughts on what STI is and why we…
Analog DesignA collection of 34 posts
The process of building thousands of transistors into a single chip to create an integrated circuit (IC) is known as very-large-scale integration, or VLSI. When complex semiconductor and communication technologies were being developed in the 1970s, VLSI got started.
What Are the Challenges of Using Copper Interconnects?
When we talk about using copper in chip manufacturing, we must consider some specific challenges. As you might know, copper has become the go-to material for interconnects in…
How does a voltage pulse affect an interconnect?
When a voltage pulse is applied to an interconnect, it creates an electric field in the interconnect. Let me explain how this works. I’ve found that in a…
What is Fermi level?
Fermi level Let me explain the concept of the Fermi level in a way that feels more conversational and human. When we talk about the Fermi level in…
Why is the Cut Mask Essential in the Self-Aligned Double Patterning (SADP) Process?
Cut Mask In the SADP process, we use a cut mask, also known as a block mask, to trim the tips of lines created in the first litho-etch…
Why do we use Dijkstra’s algorithm for buffered routing in VLSI?
We use Dijkstra’s algorithm for buffered routing because it tends to be very fast and efficient, especially for early planning and estimation. I think you’ll appreciate the speed…
Why do we fill via holes with tungsten in VLSI Technology
We fill via holes with tungsten in VLSI technology because tungsten has low stress and high resistance to electromigration, which makes it a reliable material for ensuring good…
Challenges and Innovations in Double-Patterning Lithography (DPL)
Double patterning is one of the go-to techniques used in the industry. As you and I know, the 193nm wavelength lithography with single exposure has hit a physical…
CMOS VLSI Design Project list(2025)
List of VLSI Project for EC, ECE & ME students VLSI Projects idea: The process of building thousands of transistors onto a single chip to create an integrated…
What is Electromigration Effect in VLSI
What is Electromigration Effect in VLSI? Material migration encompasses several forced transport processes in solid materials, such as chemical diffusion due to concentration gradients, migration caused by temperature…