Patent ID: 6034431
Filing Date: 2000-03-07
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
An apparatus comprising:an integrated circuit having:a plurality of circuit cells for processing electric signals, each circuit cell comprising a transistor,a predetermined number of electric inputs and electric outputs electrically connected to said circuit cells, andat least two layers of metalization for providing electric coupling, said two layers including a topmost layer of metalization, wherein at least a first portion of the topmost layer of metalization is disposed in superposed relation to at least one of the circuit cells;a conductive weld disposed on the first portion of the topmost layer of metalization;a predetermined number of optical input devices electrically coupled, via the conductive weld and said two layers of metalization, to a distinct one of said electric inputs of the integrated circuit; anda predetermined number of optical output devices electrically coupled, via the conductive weld and two layers of metalization, to a distinct one of said electric outputs of the integrated circuit.