Patent ID: 7687388
Filing Date: 2010-03-30
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A method comprising: forming first photoresist patterns defining nitride film spacer regions by performing a first photolithographic process on a semiconductor substrate; and then etching the semiconductor substrate along the first photoresist patterns; and then removing the first photoresist patterns; and then depositing an etch-stop film over the semiconductor substrate; and then performing an etchback process on the etch-stop film; and then forming a hard mask on the semiconductor substrate including the etch-stop film; and then performing a second photolithographic process on the hard mask to form second photoresist patterns defining gate electrode regions; and then patterning the hard mask by performing a dry etch process employing the second photoresist patterns; and then forming spacers by patterning the etch-stop film to expose the surface of the semiconductor substrate.