Abstract: A method of fabricating a node contact on a substrate, which contains a first conductive device and an insulating layer covering the substrate and the first conductive device, includes forming at least two conductive lines on the insulating layer, wherein the conductive lines are separated by a first distance; forming at least two second conductive devices on the insulating layer, wherein the second conductive devices are separated by a second distance, and wherein one of the conductive lines and one of the second conductive devices are separated by a third distance, and wherein both the first and second distances are greater than the third distance; forming an isolation layer of a thickness on the substrate to cover the insulating layer, the conductive lines and the second conductive devices, wherein the isolation layer comprises a dished area located between the second conductive devices; removing a portion of the isolation layer to form a spacer around the second conductive devices, and to deepen the dishe

Abstract: A method of cleaning a dual damascene structure includes forming a first conductive layer in a substrate. A dielectric layer is formed over the substrate. A dual damascene opening is formed in the dielectric layer to expose the first conductive layer. A H2O2 based aqueous solution is used to remove polymer residues in the dual damascene opening. A temperature of the H2O2 based aqueous solution is controlled so that the first conductive layer is not corroded. A diluted HF solution or a diluted HF and HCl solution is used to remove the polymer residues. A second conductive layer is formed over the substrate to fill the dual damascene opening. A chemical mechanical polishing process is performed with the dielectric layer serving as a polishing stop to remove the second conductive layer outside the dual damascene opening. A H2O2 based aqueous solution is used to clean the hydrocarbon particulates from the chemical mechanically polishing step.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a passivation layer. A substrate having semiconductor devices thereon is provided. A dielectric layer is next formed over the substrate. A liner layer is formed over the dielectric layer. A bonding pad for electrically connecting the semiconductor device in the substrate with an external package frame is formed over the liner layer. A passivation layer is formed over the substrate to protect the circuits and devices thereon. A portion of the passivation layer is removed to expose a portion of the bonding pad. Wire-bonding operation is finally carried out to put wires on the bonding pad.