Abstract: A design rule checker that performs a maximum pattern density check in a first intermediary metallization layer that underlies a top metallization layer and a pad opening in an integrated circuit. The maximum pattern density check is performed at least under some circumstances if a modulus of the primary metallization material is less than a modulus of a surrounding dielectric material. The maximum pattern density check verifies that the pattern density within the underlying portion is below a maximum pattern density that depends on the thickness of the access pad. A maximum metal width check may also be performed in this portion.

Abstract: A design rule checker that performs a maximum pattern density check in a first intermediary metallization layer that underlies a top metallization layer and a pad opening in an integrated circuit. The maximum pattern density check is performed at least under some circumstances if a modulus of the primary metallization material is less than a modulus of a surrounding dielectric material. The maximum pattern density check verifies that the pattern density within the underlying portion is below a maximum pattern density that depends on the thickness of the access pad. A maximum metal width check may also be performed in this portion.

Abstract: A design rule checker that performs a maximum pattern density check in a first intermediary metallization layer that underlies a top metallization layer and a pad opening in an integrated circuit. The maximum pattern density check is performed at least under some circumstances if a modulus of the primary metallization material is less than a modulus of a surrounding dielectric material. The maximum pattern density check verifies that the pattern density within the underlying portion is below a maximum pattern density that depends on the thickness of the access pad. A maximum metal width check may also be performed in this portion.

Abstract: A method is provided for forming a paraelectric semiconductor device by depositing a seed layer on an oxide electrode using a paraelectric material precursor and depositing a paraelectric layer on the seed layer using the paraelectric material precursor.

Abstract: One aspect of the invention relates to a one-step process for forming a transition metal aluminum oxynitride layer over a transition metal aluminum nitride layer. The transition metal aluminum nitride layer is sputter deposited using a transition metal/aluminum target in an atmosphere containing nitrogen. Subsequently, the oxygen content of the atmosphere is increased, whereby the transition metal aluminum oxynitride layer can be deposited without interrupting the process or otherwise reconditioning the target. Another aspect of the invention relates to depositing a transition metal aluminum nitride layer over a transition metal aluminum oxynitride layer by reducing the oxygen content of the atmosphere. The invention provides a one-step process for depositing a hard mask layer and upper diffusion barrier layer for the capacitor stack of a FeRAM. A top electrode, such as an Ir/IrO electrode, can be deposited as part of the one-step process.