Abstract: A semiconductor device has a semiconductor element, an output terminal coupled to the semiconductor element and a thin metal member or foil secured to an output terminal. A protective layer covers the semiconductor element including the periphery of the metal foil to define an opening located at the metal foil. By covering the periphery of the metal foil, the protective layer secures the metal foil to the semiconductor element. A lead element is affixed to the metal foil by soldering through the opening. The resulting structure increases the adhesion of the lead element. Furthermore, because the protective film covers and seals the periphery of the metal foil, the advance of moisture into the inside of the semiconductor device is retarded. Accordingly the moisture resistance of the semiconductor device is improved.

Abstract: A semiconductor device has a semiconductor element, an output terminal coupled to the semiconductor element and a thin metal member or foil secured to an output terminal. A protective layer covers the semiconductor element including the periphery of the metal foil to define an opening located at the metal foil. By covering the periphery of the metal foil, the protective layer secures the metal foil to the semiconductor element. A lead element is affixed to the metal foil by soldering through the opening. The resulting structure increases the adhesion of the lead element. Furthermore, because the protective film covers and seals the periphery of the metal foil, the advance of moisture into the inside of the semiconductor device is retarded. Accordingly the moisture resistance of the semiconductor device is improved.

Abstract: This method of photovoltaic device manufacture has process steps to form a transparent electrode layer comprising at least a tin oxide layer on a transparent substrate, to divide the transparent electrode layer into a plurality of unit areas by laser scribing, and to subsequently heat treat (anneal) the device. The laser for scribing the transparent electrode layer into a plurality of unit areas has an energy density greater than or equal to 21 J/cm.sup.2. Further, when the diameter of the laser beam spot on the transparent electrode layer is D and the distance between pulses is X, the laser satisfies the condition 0.5 D.ltoreq.X.ltoreq.0.85 D.

Abstract: A display device has a front panel including a solar battery on its surface. At least one window is formed in the solar battery to permit viewing a character formed in the front panel. Energy produced by the solar battery is stored in a storage battery for illuminating light emitting devices situated behind the front panel. The illumination provides background lighting for characters in the window of the front panel. Another embodiment of the invention uses a solar battery with an illuminated layer behind the front panel on which characters are displayed by either removing unwanted segments of a pre-formed character on the front panel or by adding segments of the characters with masking material.