Abstract: A method for evaluating a sample that includes an array of structural elements. The method includes obtaining a first small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) pattern for a first angular relationship between the sample and an x-ray beam that exhibits a first collimation value and has a given cross-sectional area on a first side of the sample. A second SAXS pattern is obtained for a second angular relationship between the sample and the x-ray beam, while the x-ray beam exhibits a second collimation value that differs from the first collimation value while maintaining the given cross-sectional area of the x-ray beam on the first side of the sample, wherein the second angular relationship differs from the first angular relationship.

Abstract: A method for X-ray scatterometry includes receiving a first distribution of an X-ray beam scattered from a sample. The first distribution exhibits asymmetry with respect to a reference axis. A correction is applied to the first distribution, so as to produce a second distribution in which a level of the asymmetry is reduced relative to the first distribution. One or more parameters of the sample are estimated based on the second distribution.

Abstract: A method for X-ray scatterometry includes receiving a first distribution of an X-ray beam scattered from a sample. The first distribution exhibits asymmetry with respect to a reference axis. A correction is applied to the first distribution, so as to produce a second distribution in which a level of the asymmetry is reduced relative to the first distribution. One or more parameters of the sample are estimated based on the second distribution.

Abstract: A method for X-ray scatterometry includes receiving a first distribution of an X-ray beam scattered from a sample. The first distribution exhibits asymmetry with respect to a reference axis. A correction is applied to the first distribution, so as to produce a second distribution in which a level of the asymmetry is reduced relative to the first distribution. One or more parameters of the sample are estimated based on the second distribution.

Abstract: A method for X-ray scatterometry includes receiving a first distribution of an X-ray beam scattered from a sample. The first distribution exhibits asymmetry with respect to a reference axis. A correction is applied to the first distribution, so as to produce a second distribution in which a level of the asymmetry is reduced relative to the first distribution. One or more parameters of the sample are estimated based on the second distribution.

Abstract: Apparatus, including a sample-support that retains a sample in a plane having an axis, the plane defining first and second regions separated by the plane. A source-mount in the first region rotates about the axis, and an X-ray source on the source-mount directs first and second incident beams of X-rays to impinge on the sample at first and second angles along beam axes that are orthogonal to the axis. A detector-mount in the second region moves in a plane orthogonal to the axis and an X-ray detector on the detector-mount receives first and second diffracted beams of X-rays transmitted through the sample in response to the first and second incident beams, and outputs first and second signals, respectively, in response to the received first and second diffracted beams. A processor analyzes the first and the second signals so as to determine a profile of a surface of the sample.

Abstract: Apparatus, including a sample-support that retains a sample in a plane having an axis, the plane defining first and second regions separated by the plane. A source-mount in the first region rotates about the axis, and an X-ray source on the source-mount directs first and second incident beams of X-rays to impinge on the sample at first and second angles along beam axes that are orthogonal to the axis. A detector-mount in the second region moves in a plane orthogonal to the axis and an X-ray detector on the detector-mount receives first and second diffracted beams of X-rays transmitted through the sample in response to the first and second incident beams, and outputs first and second signals, respectively, in response to the received first and second diffracted beams. A processor analyzes the first and the second signals so as to determine a profile of a surface of the sample.