Patent ID: 7732798
Filing Date: 2010-06-08
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A programmable link structure for use in three dimensional integration (3DI) semiconductor devices, comprising: a via filled at least in part with a phase change material (PCM); a heating device proximate said PCM, said heating device configured to switch the conductivity of a transformable portion of said PCM between a lower resistance crystalline state and a higher resistance amorphous state; said via thereby defining a programmable link between an input connection located at one end thereof and an output connection located at another end thereof; wherein said input connection of said programmable link is formed on a first metal level, input and output terminals for said heating device are located on a second metal level, and said output connection of said programmable link is formed on a third metal level; said via filled at least in part with said PCM is disposed between said input connection of said programmable link and a top side of said heating device, another via is disposed between a bottom surface of said heating device and said output connection of said programmable link; and wherein said another via is disposed directly beneath said via filled at least in part with said PCM, and said another via is also filled at least in part with said PCM.