BiCMOS processes gain laser-trimmable resistors

Edited by the Electronicstalk editorial team Sep 17, 2004

A new SiChrome (SiCr) thin film resistor that features low parasitics and a 500ohm sheet resistance to help reduce die size.

A new SiChrome (SiCr) thin film resistor that features low parasitics and a 500ohm sheet resistance to help reduce die size.

The new resistor is available on PolarFab's RFBC and ABC3 0.8-micron c-BiCMOS processes, used for manufacturing integrated circuits for high performance amplifier, line driver, consumer electronics and power management applications.

The new laser-trimmable resistor makes the processes ideal for precision analogue applications as well.

The low parasitic SiCr thin film resistor provides the high resistances desired by designers in a smaller area than similar materials typically used in c-BiCMOS processes.

The laser trimmability provides good resistor matching and contributes to a smaller die size and tighter tolerances for repeatable, consistent performance characteristics to reduce the tendency to overdesign for process variation.

In addition to the reduced die size of circuits fabricated using PolarFab's RFBC and ABC3 processes, the SiCr resistor provides a zero temperature coefficient (TCR).

PolarFab's RFBC process can be used to design analogue and mixed-signal circuits that operate up to 1.5 GHz and 10V.

The process includes a 9GHz, 6V BVceo high-performance NPN bipolar transistor, ideal for high frequency applications; a 3GHz, 15V BVceo isolated VPNP for high performance amplifier output stages; a monolithically integrated high linearity/density poly-poly capacitor; and a platinum silicide (PtSi) Schottky diode.

With the RFBC process, designers can also take advantage of PolarShuttle, a multiproject, fast track wafer programme that provides a quick method to test prototypes, minimising the time it takes to get products to market.

Both the RFBC and ABC3 processes use 150mm wafers and are supported by a complete Cadence process design kit (PDK) as well as ESD protection, digital cell libraries, design models, and a design and layout manual.

Pricing and delivery is dependant on customer requirements.