Abstract: A strained semiconductor layer is achieved by an overlying stressed dielectric layer. The stress in the dielectric layer is increased by a radiation anneal. The radiation anneal can be either by scanning using a laser beam or a flash tool that provides the anneal to the whole dielectric layer simultaneously. The heat is intense, preferably 900-1400 degrees Celcius, but for a very short duration of less than 10 milliseconds; preferably about 1 millisecond or even shorter. The result of the radiation anneal can also be used to activate the source/drain. Thus, this type of radiation anneal can result in a larger change in stress, activation of the source/drain, and still no expansion of the source/drain.