Patent ID: 6024828
Filing Date: 2000-02-15
Classification: H01J,H01L

Abstract:
Apparatus for plasma etching a surface upon the front surface of a workpiece having a back surface and said front surface comprising:a plasma etching system including a lower electrode,means for clamping said workpiece upon said lower electrode in said plasma etching system, said lower electrode having a gas circulation system formed in the surface thereof for supplying gas to the back surface of said workpiece with said back surface of said workpiece resting on said lower electrode,means for heating said gas,temperature sensing means associated with said gas circulation system at an outlet from said chamber,temperature controller means for controlling said means for heating,means for supplying a heated gas through said gas circulation system under pressure to said back surface of said workpiece to bow said workpiece forming a vaulted space below said back surface, andmeans for plasma etching said surface upon said workpiece.