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Development of a simple microsystems membrane probe card

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Abstract

Presented here are details of the development of a novel membrane integrated circuit (IC) probe card structure based on microsystems technology. The device design allows probing of both solder bumps and pads. A self-limiting sensor was integrated to prolong device lifetime. Comparison with and discussion of the use of modelling is made. Possible enhancements to the probing structure are discussed to improve alignment and measurements. Also shown is data using our microsystems probe card to access a simple IC device. Our device has a contact resistance of less than 0.5 Ω for a force of 0.004 N. A method to implement our probing structure for commercial application and the potential developments which can be made to improve its ease of use are then discussed.

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Acknowledgements

This project is funded by One North-East via the County Durham Sub-regional Partnership, project SP/082. This work has a Patent (GB 0412728.8). We also thank Filtronic Compound Semiconductors Ltd for providing measurement samples.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Microsystems Technology Group, School of Engineering, University of Durham, Durham, UK

    M.D. Cooke & D. Wood

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  1. M.D. Cooke
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  2. D. Wood
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Correspondence to M.D. Cooke.

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Cooke, M., Wood, D. Development of a simple microsystems membrane probe card. Microsyst Technol 12, 1037–1044 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-006-0118-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-006-0118-y

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