Patent ID: 9103875
Filing Date: 2015-08-11
Classification: G01R

Abstract:
1. A method of detecting shorts using a test structure having first and second probe pads and a plurality of grounded tines are connected with the first probe pad, the method comprising: pulling a gate of each of the plurality of switching devices down via a resistor, to turn off the plurality of the switching devices, disconnecting the plurality of floating tines from each other and the second probe pad; scanning the test structure via an electron beam inspection tool to detect floating tines in the plurality of grounded tines, and grounded tines in the plurality of floating tines; forcing a control pad to a positive voltage greater than a threshold voltage to turn on the switching devices during probing, and connecting the isolated floating tines together and to the second probe pad, by sending an on signal to the control pad controlling an on/off state of the switching devices; and measuring a resistance between the first and second probe pads to detect any shorts from the floating tines to the grounded tines.