The downscaling of the feature size and pitches of the semi-conductor device requires the improvement of device characteristics and high yield continuously. In lithography process, RET techniques such as immersion and polarization including strong PSM mask have enabled this improvement of printability and downscaling of device. It is true that optical lithography is approaching its limit. So other lithographic technique such as EUV is needed but the application is not yet available. In this point of view, the realization of lithography friendly layout enables good printability and stable process. And its scope is being enlarged and applied in most semi-conductor devices. Therefore, in order to realize precise and effective lithography friendly layout, we need full chip data feedback of design issue, OPC error and aberration and process variables.In this paper, we report the results of data feedback using new DFM verification tool. This tool enables full chip inspection through E-beam scan method with fast and accurate output. And these data can be classified with each item for correction and stability check through die to database inspection. Especially in gate process, total CD distributions in full chip can be displayed and analyzed for each target with simple method. At first we obtain accuracy data for each target and CD uniformity from hundreds of thousands of gate pattern. And second we detect a delicate OPC error by modeling accuracy and duty difference. It is difficult to get from only measurement of thousands pattern. Finally we investigated specific pattern and area for electrical characteristic analysis in full chip. These results should be considered and reflected on design stage.
As the industry pushes to ever more complex illumination schemes to increase resolution for next generation memory and logic circuits; subresolution assist feature (SRAF) placement requirements become increasingly severe. Therefore device manufacturers are evaluating improvements in SRAF placement algorithms which do not sacrifice main feature (MF) patterning capability. AF placement algorithms can be categorized broadly as either rule-based (RB), model-based (MB). However, combining these different algorithms into new integrated solutions may enable a more optimal overall solution.RBAF is the baseline AF placement method for many previous technology nodes. Although RBAF algorithm complexity limits its use with very extreme illumination, RBAF is still a powerful option in certain scenarios. One example is for repeating patterns in memory arrays. RBAF algorithms can be finely optimized and verified experimentally without the building of complex models. RBAF also guarantees AF placement consistency based only on the very local geometric environment, which is important in applications where consistent signal propagation is of critical importance.MBAF algorithms deliver the ability to reliably place assist features for enhanced process window control across a wide variety of layout feature configurations and aggressive illumination sources. These methods optimize sophisticated AF placement to improve main feature PW but without performing full main feature OPC. The flexibility of MBAF allows for efficient investigations of future technology nodes as the number of interactions between local layout features increases beyond what RBAF algorithms can effectively support Based on hybrid approach algorithms combining features of the different algorithms using both RBAF and MBAF methods, the generation and placement of SRAF can be a good alternative. Combining of two kinds of SRAF placement options might result in relatively improved process window compared to an independent approach since two methods are capable of supplement each other with a complementary advantages.In this paper we evaluate the impact of SRAF configuration to pattern profile as well as CD margin window and manufacturing applications of MBAF and Hybrid approach algorithms compared to the current OPC without AF. As a conclusion, we suggest methodology to set up optimum SRAF configuration using these AF methods with regard to process window.
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