RF powered plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition reactor and methods of effecting plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition
US6235646A · kind A · utility
Assignees
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 26, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 22, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 26, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S438/961
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) reactors and methods of effecting the same are described. In accordance with a preferred implementation, a reaction chamber includes first and second electrodes operably associated therewith. A single RF power generator is connected to an RF power splitter which splits the RF power and applies the split power to both the first and second electrodes. Preferably, power which is applied to both electrodes is in accordance with a power ratio as between electrodes which is other than a 1:1 ratio. In accordance with one preferred aspect, the reaction chamber comprises part of a parallel plate PECVD system. In accordance with another preferred aspect, the reaction chamber comprises part of an inductive coil PECVD system. The power ratio is preferably adjustable and can be varied. One manner of effecting a power ratio adjustment is to vary respective electrode surface areas. Another manner of effecting the adjustment is to provide a power splitter which enables the output power thereof to be varied. PECVD processing methods are described as well.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.