Patent ID: 7202162
Filing Date: 2007-04-10
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A method of forming metal interconnect network featuring a capping layer formed on an underlying lower level metal structure, comprising the steps of: providing an underlying conductive region; forming a first opening in a first dielectric layer disposed on said underlying conductive region exposing a portion of a top surface of said underlying conductive region; forming a lower level metal structure in said first opening; forming a capping layer on said lower level metal structure and directly on a top surface of said first dielectric layer; forming a etch stop layer on said capping layer; forming a second dielectric layer on said etch stop layer; forming a second opening in said second dielectric layer, in said etch stop layer, and in said capping layer, exposing a portion of a top surface of said lower level metal structure; and forming an upper level metal structure in said second opening.