Patent ID: 7948234
Filing Date: 2011-05-24
Classification: B82Y,G01R,H01L,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A magnetic sensor comprising: a magnetoresistive element, wherein the magnetoresistive element includes, in plan view, an element section and an extension region extending from an end portion of the element section; and an insulation layer is formed on the element section and the extension region; a contact hole having a recessed shape, penetrating through the insulation layer, and extending at least to the extension region is formed; an electrode pad is formed in the contact hole; a surface of the electrode pad is exposed to outside; and the electrode pad is electrically connected to the extension region; and the element section and the extension region are integrally formed so as to have an identical multilayer configuration employing a magnetoresistive effect in which electrical resistance varies in response to external magnetic fields; wherein a tip portion of the extension region is formed so as to surround the contact hole; and an inner side surface of the extension region is electrically connected to a side surface of the electrode pad formed in the contact hole.