Abstract: The present invention generally provides a support member adapted to provide vacuum chucking. In one aspect, a support member having an upper surface having an outer, raised portion defining an inner, recessed portion is provided. The inner recessed portion is in fluid communication with a vacuum supply. The support member may include a plurality of raised support portions having one or more recessed portions adjacent thereto, the raised support portions having equal heights above the recessed portions. The transition between the raised portions and the recessed portions is gradual and the orifices formed by the holes extending through the upper surface of the substrate support are rounded to eliminate sharp edges and rapid changes in height at the upper surface.

Abstract: A support member for supporting a substrate in a process chamber, the support member having a substrate support surface with one or more isolated recessed areas. A vacuum channel and a gas channel are formed in the support member along a common plane and are coupled to a vacuum source and gas source respectively. The gas channel comprises two or more concentrically disposed annular gas channels encompassing the vacuum channel. The vacuum channel is coupled to the support surface, and in particular to the one or more recessed areas, by a plurality of conduits. A portion of the conduits is disposed diametrically exterior to at least one of the annular gas channels and communicates with the vacuum channel via bypass channels.

Abstract: A gas delivery apparatus and method for directing a flow of gas to the edge of a substrate at an angle to the radial direction of the substrate is provided. The apparatus directs the gas from a gas opening, over a plurality of grooves that are angled relative to a radial line originating at a center of the gas delivery apparatus. Subsequently, the gas is flowed over a portion of the substrate to prevent reactive gases from depositing on selective portions of the substrate.