Abstract

The programming characteristics of polysilicon resistor fuses were investigated. It was found that an open circuit occurs only after the fuse makes a transition to a second-breakdown state in which the current flow is mainly through a molten filament. Filamentary current flow is stable since the resistivity of silicon decreases abruptly upon melting. A simple model was developed which explains the observed I - V characteristics. Fuse opening occurs when the current in second breakdown exceeds a critical current I min which depends strongly on the fuse thickness and the presence or absence of a passivation layer over the fuse. The gap forms at the positive end, suggesting that the silicon ions move by drift in the applied electric field.

Full Text
Published version (Free)

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call