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ECE 4244 - Intermediate Semiconductor Processing Laboratory (3C)

Course Description

Design, layout, fabricate, and characterize microelectronic devices. Analyze test results to verify performance to the predetermined specifications. Required oral and written reports.

Why take this course?

This course provides the laboratory experience necessary to demonstrate all of the principles of semiconductor wafer design, fabrication, and testing. It is a critical course for preparing advanced undergraduate for working in a university research environment and/or the microelectronics industry.

Learning Objectives

  • Design the mask patterns required to fabricate a microelectronic device or circuit
  • Work in a cleanroom environment using proper safety and cleanroom protocols required to assure integrity of the lab and wafer and safety of the student and coworkers
  • Demonstrate proficiency in performing processing procedures including: wafer cleaning; wet dry oxidation; diffusion of dopants; metallization; wafer etching; and the use of an test station to measure the electrical properties of the devices created
  • Master the use of a software package to accomplish objective 3
  • Prepare written and oral reports describing the design, construction, and test results of the project.

    • Resources & Links

    Two-Semester Major Design Experience

    ECE’s two-semester Major Design Experience (ECE 4805-4806) provides teams of students with simulations of the post-college world via projects specified and directed by industry partners. For more information, contact class instructor, Dr. Joe Adams.

    Textbook List

    Take a look at the Fall 2024 ECE textbook list.
    Take a look at the Spring 2025 ECE textbook list.

    Current Prerequisites & Course Offering

    For current prerequisites for a particular course, and to view course offerings for a particular semester, see the Virginia Tech Course Timetables

    ABET Engineering Accreditation Commission

    The B.S. degree in electrical engineering and the B.S. degree in computer engineering are accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.

    Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) & Student Outcomes (SOs)