Schlumberger Introduces Test Handling Solution for Improved Test Accuracy in Design and Validation
Schlumberger Automated Test Equipment (ATE) (San Jose, CA) introduced the IHS 1000tx, a precision thermal control test handling solution for design and validation that increases testing accuracy. The system is capable of thermal control of devices under test (DUT) up to and exceeding 100 W/cm2. It helps improve testing accuracy for the high-end logic microprocessor unit (MPU) market where at-speed test and yield is a key challenge.
At 500 MHz, each one degree of die temperature inaccuracy results in 1 MHz of device operating frequency error, causing significant loss of precision in operating frequency measurements. For every increase in junction temperature of a CMOS device, the maximum switching frequency of that transistor decreases. Junction temperature error in excess of 20°C during testing is typical for a high speed microprocessor, inducing a frequency measurement uncertainty of 20 MHz.
With the introduction of the IHS 1000tx, Schlumberger has integrated its Power Balancing thermal technology into a test handler to address this challenge. This new handling solution overcomes the die temperature issue by providing minimal set point deviation during characterization, validation and final manufacturing test.
The IHS 1000tx system's capability to thermally control DUTs up to and exceeding 100W/cm2 eliminates thermal damage risk during test and enables the device manufacturer to isolate thermal performance variances more quickly and accurately. By dynamically monitoring the device power, the device selfheating effects are minimized, so there is no need to modify test vectors due to DUT thermal issues. It is no longer necessary to add thermal stabilization delays to the test program, making test program generation more efficient and less resource intensive.
Schlumberger Test & Transactions is comprised of Schlumberger ATE and Schlumberger Smart Cards & Terminals. Schlumberger Test & Transactions is a business unit of Schlumberger Limited.
Schlumberger Test & Transactions, 1601 Technology Drive, San Jose CA 95110-1397. Phone: 408-453-0123; Fax: 408-437-1976