Abstract: A method of forming metal contact terminals (35) of a determined size having an insulating substrate (17) with a metal land (18) formed thereon and a passivating layer (19) provided with an opening exposing a part of the metal land by forming intermediate metal contact pad (33') in the contact opening, applying and patterning a photoresist, delineating the intermediate metal contact pad (33') using pattern (31) as an in-situ mask, depositing a lead-tin solder layer (34') over a metal mask to form a solder bump (34') on the final metal contact pad, and reflowing the solder to form a solder ball (34). Thereby achieving the metal contact terminal (35) at the contact pad site. The above method has applicability to the fabrication of contact terminals for high density/high count I/O connections for advanced semiconductor chips that are appropriate for flip-chip (C4) or face-down bonding thereof on metallized ceramic (MC) substrates.

Abstract: This invention relates more particularly to an electron-gun metal evaporation system for solder (lead/tin, lead/indium) deposition upon integrated circuit chips. This system utilizes a crucible comprised of a tantalum bent-cone V-shaped liner or cup seated in spaced relationship in a recess of a copper hearth.