Metallization paste

Solamet PV159 thick-film metallization paste for frontside PV solar cell metallization purportedly has a favorable environmental profile, as it is made without cadmium as an ingredient. The newly developed chemistry in the paste is being used as the basis for a range of materials characterized by varying degrees of chemical reactivity, enabling solar cell manufacturers to more exactly match the material to their specific process conditions. Solamet PV159 is compatible with the most recently released Silver Tabbing material, Solamet PV505, that delivers high adhesion, low laydown, and low contact resistance, according to the company. DuPont Microcircuit Materials; ph 800/284-3382, mcm.dupont.com.

Probe test card

The PrecisionWoRx VX4 is the next generation of the company’s probe card test and analysis tools. The system, which will replace the PrecisionPoint VX3, adds configurable channels, higher loading forces, a user interface and software architecture consistent with other WoRx family tools, and a current-generation operating system (Windows XP or Vista). The new VX4 is scheduled for release in the first half of 2009. The system features load forces up to 150kg and will accommodate newer probe cards with high pin counts. The unit allows semiconductor manufacturers to evaluate and correct the planarity, alignment, contact resistance, leakage current, probe force, tip wear, scrub characteristics, and numerous other critical probe card parameters that impact probing process performance. Rudolph Technologies, Flanders, NJ USA; ph 973/691-1300, www.rudolphtech.com. 

Ashable hard mask process technology

An ashable hard mask (AHM) process configuration serves the company’s VECTOR Extreme PECVD platform. As configured on the VECTOR Extreme, the AHM technology employs an RF power configuration, optimized process gas chemistry, and integrated post-deposition edge bevel film removal (EBR). The VECTOR Extreme AHM system is capable of providing memory manufacturers throughputs in excess of 150 wafers per hour, claims the company. Novellus Systems Inc., San Jose, CA USA; ph 408/943-9700, www.novellus.com.