SkyWater Technology announced earlier this year the establishment of a new cryogenic lab dedicated to characterizing random telegraph signal (RTS) noise for read-out integrated circuits (ROICs). This move is aimed at addressing the crucial need to mitigate RTS noise in order to enhance image quality and performance for ROIC customers across various applications, including night vision, military surveillance and industrial and automotive thermal imaging.

SkyWater's cryogenic lab leverages FormFactor's (CSA CSM) advanced cryogenic probe system, which enables precise on-wafer measurements even in extreme environments. Collaborating with the electrical engineering teams from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and Arizona State University, SkyWater has developed test chips that facilitate the assessment of RTS noise for different transistor types and temperatures. The data obtained from these measurements enables the implementation of enhancements for improved imaging capabilities.

Minimizing RTS noise is of utmost importance for ROIC customers as it directly impacts the performance of image sensors. By detecting and measuring noise through their cryo lab, SkyWater strengthens mitigation efforts to counteract the effects of RTS noise. These new cryogenic noise characterization capabilities further augment the company's ability to streamline the process and product development of advanced imaging systems, serving the defense and specialty industrial sectors.

FormFactor's high-performance probes are optimized for testing cooled infrared sensors and cutting-edge technologies that operate at cryogenic temperatures. This optimization allows for the collection of accurate data in a wide range of application environments. The cryogenic probe system acts as a freezer, bringing the sample environment to extremely cold temperatures, while FormFactor's state-of-the-art E4727B Advanced Low-Frequency Noise Analyzer (A-LFNA) system from Keysight Technologies measures the noise. [JS1] [AD2] Additionally, FormFactor's Advanced Cryogenic Lab, launched in 2022, played a vital role in the test development by providing early access to a cryogenic wafer prober while SkyWater's cryo lab was being prepared.

Dr. Mike Slessor, CEO of FormFactor, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration. [JS3] “The FormFactor cryogenic probe system, with the ability to measure at the wafer level down to 7 K, positions SkyWater to advance ROIC technology to its customers. Our cryogenic test and measurement product portfolio, expanding from 10 millikelvin to 77 K, enables demanding applications such as ROICs and quantum computing to customers worldwide. We are thrilled with this SkyWater and Keysight collaboration.”

SkyWater's Chief Technology Officer, Dr. Steven Kosier, emphasized the successful collaboration with various partners, both public and private, in facilitating the lab’s establishment. “Facilitating our cryo lab was a successful collaboration among many partners, both public and private. With an aim to advance ROIC technology and enhance domestic capabilities for our customers, we invested in FormFactor’s state-of-the-art cryogenic probe system. By partnering with ASU and UTC, we were able to quickly develop the test chips to measure and characterize RTS noise, which speeds up the development process.”

The increased utilization of infrared (IR) imaging systems in healthcare[JS4] [AD5] , aerospace and defense, industrial and automotive applications contribute to the growth of the ROIC market. Advancements in IR imaging systems have broad application, including night vision, disaster rescue, homing and tracking, ecology and weather forecasting, surveillance, predictive inspection and maintenance, remote temperature sensing, short-range communication, spectroscopy and medical diagnostics and treatment.

With the establishment of the cryogenic lab and its collaboration with esteemed academic institutions, SkyWater Technology demonstrates its commitment to advancing ROIC technology and bolstering domestic capabilities. By investing in cutting[JS6] [AD7] -                                                                                                                         edge equipment like FormFactor's cryogenic probe system and fostering partnerships for rapid test chip development, SkyWater is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its customers and expedite the development of advanced imaging systems. As the ROIC market continues to thrive, SkyWater's cryogenic lab and its focus on minimizing RTS noise represent a significant contribution to improving image sensor performance, shaping the future of the semiconductor industry. www.skywatertechnology.com

Image: SkyWater establishes cryogenic lab to characterize RTS noise for ROICs. Credit: SkyWater

Source: SkyWater