Single column failure [1], one of the complex failure modes in SRAM is possibly induced by multiform defect types at diverse locations. Especially, soft single column failure is of great complexity. As physical failure analysis (PFA) is expensive and time-consuming, thorough electrical failure analysis (EFA) is needed to precisely localize the failing area to greater precision before PFA. The methodology involves testing for failure mode validation, understanding the circuit and using EFA tools such as IR-OBIRCH (InfraRed-Optical Beam Induced Resistance CHange) and MCT (MerCad Telluride, HgCdTe) for analysis. However, the electrical failure signature for soft single column failure is usually marginal, so additional techniques are needed to obtain accurate isolation and electrical characterization instead of blindly looking around. Thus in this discussion, we will also present the use of internal probing techniques like C-AFM [2] (Conductive Atomic Force Microscopy) and a nanoprobing technique [3] for characterizing electrical properties and understanding the root cause.

Scanning Capacitance Microscopy (SCM) has been extensively used for identifying doping issues in semiconductor failure analysis. In this paper, the root causes of two recent problems -- bipolar beta loss and CMOS power leakage -- were verified using SCM images. Another localization method, layer-by-layer circuit repair with IROBIRCH detection, was also utilized to locate possible defects. The resulting failure mechanism for bipolar beta loss is illustrated with a schematic cross section, which shows the leakage path from the emitter to the base. In the case of CMOS power leakage, the abnormal implantation of the Pwell region was identified with the Plane view SCM image.

Scanning capacitance microscopy (SCM) is a powerful technique that may readily be applied to semiconductor failure analysis yielding information on problems stemming from doping issues. This paper details the study of a current leakage failure and outlines the use of the SCM technique for shallow trench isolation applications. A two-step sample preparation technique involving firstly, Chemical Mechanical Polishing (CMP) followed by a wet etch, could improve the sample surface planarization allowing SCM inspection of the STI region.