Angular dependence of multiple-bit upset response in static random access memories under heavy ion irradiation

Abstract

Experimental evidence is presented relevant to the angular dependences of multiple-bit upset (MBU) rates and patterns in static random access memories (SRAMs) under heavy ion irradiation. The single event upset (SEU) cross sections under tilted ion strikes are overestimated by 23.9%–84.6%, compared with under normally incident ion with the equivalent linear energy transfer (LET) value of ∼ 41 MeV/(mg/cm2), which can be partially explained by the fact that the MBU rate for tilted ions of 30° is 8.5%–9.8% higher than for normally incident ions. While at a lower LET of ∼ 9.5 MeV/(mg/cm2), no clear discrepancy is observed. Moreover, since the ion trajectories at normal and tilted incidences are different, the predominant double-bit upset (DBU) patterns measured are different in both conditions. Those differences depend on the LET values of heavy ions and devices under test. Thus, effective LET method should be used carefully in ground-based testing of single event effects (SEE) sensitivity, especially in MBU-sensitive devices.