Abstract: A MOS bulk device having source/drain-contact regions 36 which are almost completely isolated by a dielectric 35. These "source/drain" regions 36 are formed by using a silicon etch to form a recess, lining the etched recess with oxide, and backfilling with polysilicon. A short isotropic oxide etch, followed by a polysilicon filament deposition, then makes contact between the oxide-isolated source/drain-contact regions 36 and the channel region 33 of the active device. Outdiffusion through the small area of this contact will form small diffusions 44 in silicon, which act as the electrically effective source/drain regions. Use of sidewall nitride filaments 30 on the gate permits the silicon etch step to be self-aligned.

Abstract: Liquid silicon is deposited on a high surface area column of silicon nitride particles, by hydrogen decomposition of trichlorosilane. This is accomplished in an environment heated to a temperature in excess of the melting point of silicon. After deposition, the liquid silicon flows by gravity to a collection point. Preferably a liquid transfer system moves the silicon directly to a crystal pulling operation. The liquid transfer to immediate pulling conserves energy and allows for continual withdrawal of melt from the reactor. The immediate pulling provides additional purification and the crystal thus pulled is preferably used as feedstock for a final crystal pulling operation.

Abstract: A non-volatile memory storage cell utilizing a single vertical junction field-effect transistor is fabricated by a method, which is compatible with the fabrication of MOSFET interface and logic circuits on the same chip. Assembly of a multi-dielectric stack, which contains the non-volatile element, is accomplished late in the process to avoid degradation of the non-volatility characteristics.

Abstract: An electronic digital programmable wall thermostat system for controlling heating and cooling systems supplying an indoor area or space. The thermostat includes a digital clock, a display for displaying desired parameters of time and temperature and a data entry keyboard for programming the thermostat to maintain desired temperatures during selected time intervals. The heart of the system is a digital processor with memory, which responds to signals from a temperature sensing means which includes an analog to digital converter for controlling the heating and cooling systems in accordance with the sequence programmed therein. The system provides for conservation of energy by automatic system shutdown or setback when the heated or cooled space is unoccupied or during periods when activity in the space is minimal such as during sleeping hours.

Abstract: A photo-electric coupler, or isolator, wherein a semiconductor light emitter and a semiconductor photodetector are enclosed in a light transmissive body having a surface covering of light reflective material for reflecting toward the photodetector, incident light from the emitter. The emitter and detector can be disposed face-to-face or side-by-side. The reflective cover can provide an external protective covering for the device or a conventional housing can be used.