Half-micron BCD process gains more flexibility

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Sep 9, 2003

A number of new features and devices have been qualified and added to PolarFab's 6in-wafer PBC4 0.5-micron BCD process.

A number of new features and devices have been qualified and added to PolarFab's 6in-wafer PBC4 0.5-micron BCD process.

The PBC4 process enables the integration of dense 0.5-micron CMOS with high-voltage drivers, resulting in the fabrication of extremely complex smart-power chips.

Designed for smart-power and power management IC applications, such as motor controllers, gate drivers, and microprocessor supervisory circuits, the PBC4 process accommodates power levels up to 40V.

The newly qualified devices and options of the PBC4 process include a low-threshold-voltage (Vt) option for NMOS devices and high-voltage bipolar (NPN) devices, which are compatible with single-cell battery and motherboard applications.

These devices, which increase design flexibility, are also useful for portable applications.

An asymmetric NMOS device, a superior power device with a low specific on-resistance of 59mohm/mm2 and used for 30V applications, has also been qualified.

In addition, PolarFab has qualified the PBC4 process' 40V tubbing, extending the range of the process to enable sections of the chip to operate at 40V while other circuitry operates at low (5V) and medium (12V) levels.

This helps reduce system implementation costs by increasing chip packing density.

In addition, the process now includes a symmetric isolated high-voltage (30V) PMOS device and its complementary symmetric high-voltage (40V) NMOS device for line driver applications.

The PBC4 process features: dual gate oxides (5.5 and 16V); complementary N- and P-channel mosfets with 5, 16, and 30V capabilities; a variety of passive elements; and two NMOS devices rated for 40V operation.

Two- and three-layer metal versions of the process are currently available.

PolarFab now offers a completely updated process design kit (PDK) for the PBC4 process, including models for all devices, a digital library, a comprehensive manual, and application notes.

Pricing and delivery depend on customer requirements.