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Overview

Process overview

Design rules

Design standards

Changelog

Thin Film Electrode Design Standards

Tabs

Connective tabs keep the release area attached to the rest of the wafer during shipping but are thin enough that they can be easily removed by hand upon arrival.

Isometric and cross sectional diagrams of connecting tabs holding a release area to the rest of the wafer.

The geometry of the OUTLINE2 masking level is subtracted from the OUTLINE1 masking level to form the final geometry that defines the trench etch. A downloadable GDS tab cell file is available here with all the relevant tab geometries.

Layout of the downloadable GDS file

To align the GDS tab cell, the bulk of the TAB masking level should be positioned outside the release area while the "arm" extends into the release area.

Improper alignment of the downloadable GDS fileImproper alignment of the downloadable GDS fileProper alignment of the downloadable GDS file
OUTLINE2 extends into the release area. TAB arm does not reach into release area. Correct alignment

Release area

The RELEASE masking level should should be a solid area that encloses the OUTLINE1 masking level by 100 µm on all sides. The RELEASE masking level will also need to wrap around the XZONE masking level to ensure the connective tabs have a sturdy anchor point.

Improper alignment of the downloadable GDS fileImproper alignment of the downloadable GDS file
RELEASE expanded beyond the OUTLINE1 masking level. RELEASE with cut outs for XZONE masking level.

General FAQs

What is the metal composition used in the TFE process?
  • The metal 1 layer uses 20 nm Ti, 20 nm Pt, 160 nm Au, 20 nm Pt, and 20 nm Ti.
  • The top metal layer uses 10 nm Ti + 90 nm Pt.
How is the metal deposited?
  • The metal layer is deposited via evaporation with an electron-beam tool.