Patent ID: 8809178
Filing Date: 2014-08-19
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A method of forming a FinFET device, comprising: forming a plurality of spaced-apart trenches in a semiconducting substrate, said trenches defining a fin structure for said device, said fin structure having an upper surface; forming a local isolation region within each of said trenches, said local isolation region having an upper surface that is positioned below said upper surface of said fin structure; after forming said local isolation regions, forming a sacrificial gate structure on said fin structure, wherein forming said sacrificial gate structure comprises forming a gate insulation layer on sidewall surfaces and said upper surface of said fin and forming a sacrificial gate electrode above said gate insulation layer; forming a layer of insulating material above said fin structure and within said trench above said local isolation region; performing at least one etching process to remove said sacrificial gate structure to thereby define a gate cavity; after removing said sacrificial gate structure, performing at least one etching process to form a recess in said local isolation region, wherein sidewalls of said recess are substantially aligned with sidewalls of said gate cavity; and forming a replacement gate structure that is positioned in said recess in said local isolation region and in said gate cavity.