R&D Systems for MEMS Manufacturing
Oxide and Silicon Etch Development Platform for Cost-effective MEMS Research
memsstar’s ORBIS™ ALPHA system is a low-cost, small footprint, self-contained version of our proven XERIC™ oxide and silicon etch processes designed to meet the price and performance requirements of the institutional and academic markets. It includes fully integrated process monitoring and endpoint control, a high-selectivity package and a proven hardware that delivers excellent uniformity and repeatability, critical to improving yield.
The ALPHA system allows for all the capability of memsstar’s unique patented high volume production process to enable researchers to develop production-capable processes for the next generation of MEMS devices.
The ORBIS ALPHA system is available as a silicon etch module utilizing xenon difluoride or as an oxide etch module utilizing hydrogen fluoride etchants.
memsstar’s XERIC Silicon Etch
Used for dry processing, the XERIC silicon etch system utilises vapor phase dry release etching with xenon difluoride providing continuous flow design for the etch material. The patented memsstar XERIC sacrificial vapor release XeF2 process is highly selective to a range of materials including SiO2, Si3N4. This process means that large undercuts of structures can be performed with no degradation in etch rate and a wide range of films including all forms of silicon can be etched.
Find out more about the XERIC Silicon Etch
memsstar’s XERIC Oxide Etch
This is a patented process which is compatible with a wide range of metals utilising vapor phase dry release with anhydrous HF (hydrogen fluoride) and has market leading selectivities towards Si3N4. The XERIC oxide etch HF sacrificial release system offers a variety of benefits to companies who are engaged in MEMS manufacturing and development.
Find out more about the XERIC Oxide Etch
| ORBIS ALPHA Key Features | |
|---|---|
| Key characteristics | Large process window to optimize process for any structure Excellent selectivity with silicon nitride and silicon dioxide (<5% 1σ) High selectivity to underlayer and mechanical materials Industry-leading etch rates High etch rates for undercut and blanket Si Excellent uniformity (<5% 1σ) Excellent repeatability (<5% 1σ) No corrosion No stiction In-line controls—etch rate monitor, endpoint, temperature Unique endpoint capability Self contained, on-board etchants (XeF2 or HF) Handles materials from sample sizes to 200mm Small footprint (600 x 540 x 900 mm) DeviceNet control LabVIEW control system PC controlled Resistive touch screen |
| Application examples | Sensors, RF MEMS, micro bolometer arrays, accelerometers, RF switches, temperature gauges |
