Abstract: A multi-layer contact process is described for providing contact to a shallow semiconductor region forming a semiconductor PN junction and with a silicon semiconductor body. The multi-layer structure includes a layer of polycrystalline silicon doped with an impurity of the same conductivity type as that of the semiconductor region. A first layer of a refractory alloy is deposited over the polycrystalline silicon layer to provide electrically stable interface therewith. A second layer of another refractory metal or alloy is deposited over the first refractory metal alloy layer and serves to protect the shallow PN junction against current leakage failure. A third layer of interconnect metal is deposited over the multi-layer contact structure. The resulting structure provides a low resistance ohmic contact to a shallow semiconductor region with improved electrical characteristics.

Abstract: Operation of an AC plasma display panel requires the three control operations of write, erase, and sustain. Sustain, write and erase signals are stored in a plurality of sections in a storage device and the sections are selectively accessed according to the specific operation to be provided to the plasma panel display. The control signals stored within a given sequence are selected so that no dimming occurs during write and erase operations. A brightness control is provided to modulate the average repetition rate of signals applied to the plasma display panel. In this manner, a plurality of flicker-free brightness levels may be chosen.

Abstract: A system for providing sustain, write and erase operations in an AC plasma gas display panel in which selstain circuits are created by integrating the sustain and selection functions. Each selstain circuit is deposited on a single integrate circuit. This circuit is fabricated with low voltage integrated circuit technology. In addition, the sustain signal is floated on the write/erase signal.

Abstract: A gas discharge display panel may be used for display purposes despite the presence of open conductors in the panel. Four termination areas, each including a plurality of repair pads are provided, one at each end of each of the two conductor arrays in the panel. One end of each conductor in each array is connected to a respective repair pad in the adjacent termination area. A repair cable having a plurality of conductors runs from the termination area at one end of a conductor array to the termination area at the other end of the array. To repair an open, opposite ends of a respective repair cable conductor are connected to the open conductor's repair pads.By virtue of the connection of the opposite ends of a repair cable conductor to the open conductor's repair pads, both ends of the open conductor are electrically connected. When an open conductor is energized at one end, the entire body of the open conductor is at the same electrical potential despite the presence of the open.