Abstract: A method and system for backside unlayering a semiconductor device to expose FEOL semiconductor features of the device for subsequent electrical and/or physical probing. A window is formed within a backside substrate layer of the semiconductor. A collimated ion plasma is generated and directed so as to contact the semiconductor only within the backside window via an opening in a focusing shield. This focused collimated ion plasma contacts the semiconductor, only within the window, while the semiconductor is simultaneously being rotated and tilted by a temperature controlled stage, for uniform removal of semiconductor layering such that the semiconductor features, in a location on the semiconductor corresponding to the backside window, are exposed. Backside unlayering of the invention may be enhanced by CAIBE processing.

Abstract: A semiconductor device monitor structure is described which can detect localized defects due to floating-body effects, particularly on SOI device wafers. The monitor structure includes a plurality of cells containing PFET or NFET devices, disposed at a perimeter of the structure which is bordered by an insulating region such as shallow trench isolation (STI). Each cell includes polysilicon gate structures having a characteristic spacing given by a first distance, and a portion extending beyond the perimeter a second distance. The cells are constructed in accordance with progressively varying ground rules, so that the first distance and second distance are non-uniform between cells. The cells may be bit fail mapped for single-cell failures, thereby enabling detection of localized defects due to floating-body effects.

Abstract: A semiconductor device monitor structure is described which can detect localized defects due to floating-body effects, particularly on SOI device wafers. The monitor structure includes a plurality of cells containing PFET or NFET devices, disposed at a perimeter of the structure which is bordered by an insulating region such as shallow trench isolation (STI). Each cell includes polysilicon gate structures having a characteristic spacing given by a first distance, and a portion extending beyond the perimeter a second distance. The cells are constructed in accordance with progressively varying ground rules, so that the first distance and second distance are non-uniform between cells. The cells may be bit fail mapped for single-cell failures, thereby enabling detection of localized defects due to floating-body effects.