Patent Publication Number: US-9853446-B2

Title: Integrated circuit (IC) package comprising electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     Field 
     Various features relate to an integrated circuit (IC) package, and more specifically to an integrated circuit (IC) package that includes electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. 
     Background 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a configuration of an integrated circuit package that includes a die. Specifically,  FIG. 1  illustrates an integrated circuit package  100  that includes a die  102  and a package substrate  106 . The package substrate  106  includes a dielectric layer and a plurality of interconnects  110 . The package substrate  106  is a laminated substrate. The plurality of interconnects  110  includes traces, pads and/or vias. The die  102  is coupled to the package substrate  106  through a plurality of solder balls  112 . The package substrate  106  is coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB)  108  through a plurality of solder balls  116 . 
     The integrated circuit package  100  is designed to operate under a particular package operation. For example, the integrated circuit package  100  is designed to operate within certain reliability requirements and electronic stress boundaries. Examples of electronic stress boundaries include voltage boundaries (e.g. change in voltages), current boundaries (e.g., change in currents), and electrostatic discharge (ESD) boundaries. Similarly, the die  102  is designed to operate within similar electronic stress boundaries. These electronic stress boundaries are tested at the package level. That is, the integrated circuit package  100  is tested by an electronic tester (e.g., ESD tester) to determine whether the integrated circuit package  100 , as a whole, is within specified electronic stress boundaries. 
     Different devices (e.g., mobile devices, automotive devices) may specify different package operations, different reliability, and different electronic stress boundaries (e.g., different ESD requirements). Thus, different circuit designs for the dies and packages are desirable for different devices due to the different reliability and different electronic stress boundary specifications for each device. However, the process of redesigning the circuit design of the die  102  can be quite expensive. In many cases, this cost is so high that it is prohibitive. 
     Moreover, changes to the circuit design of the die  102  will result in changes to the overall electronic reliability and sensitivity of the integrated circuit package  100 . For example, changes to the circuit design of the die  102  may result in a different electronic stress boundary of the die  102  and a different electronic stress boundary of the integrated circuit package  100 . Thus, a redesign of the circuit design of the die  102  may require a substantial redesign of the integrated circuit package  100 . In a worst case scenario, a new circuit design of the die  102  may not work at all with the pre-existing design of the integrated circuit package  100 . 
     Therefore, there is a need for an integrated circuit package that can be used with different devices, applications, reliability requirements and electronic stress boundaries without having to completely redesign the die, while at the same time meeting the needs and/or requirements of the devices in which the integrated circuit package is implemented in. 
     SUMMARY 
     Various features relate to an integrated circuit (IC) package that includes electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. 
     One example provides an integrated circuit (IC) package that includes a die, a package substrate coupled to the die, and a first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component coupled to the package substrate, where the first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component is configured to provide package level electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. 
     Another example provides an electronic device that includes an integrated circuit (IC) package comprising a die and a package substrate coupled to the die. The electronic device also includes an interposer coupled to the integrated circuit (IC) package, where the interposer comprises a first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. The first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component is configured to provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. 
    
    
     
       DRAWINGS 
       Various features, nature and advantages may become apparent from the detailed description set forth below when taken in conjunction with the drawings in which like reference characters identify correspondingly throughout. 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an integrated circuit (IC) package. 
         FIG. 2  illustrates a profile view of an example of an integrated circuit package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a profile view of an example of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a profile view of an example of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a profile view of an example of another electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a view of an example of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an example of circuit diagram of a circuit in an integrated circuit package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a profile view of an example of an integrated circuit package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component embedded in a package substrate. 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a profile view of an example of an integrated circuit package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component coupled to an interposer. 
         FIG. 10  illustrates an example of circuit diagram of a circuit in an integrated circuit package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 11  (which includes  FIGS. 11A-11C ) illustrates an exemplary sequence for providing/fabricating an integrated circuit package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 12  (which includes  FIGS. 12A-12B ) illustrates an exemplary sequence for providing/fabricating an integrated circuit package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component coupled to an interposer. 
         FIG. 13  illustrates an exemplary flow diagram of a method for providing/fabricating an integrated circuit package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
         FIG. 14  illustrates various electronic devices that may integrate an integrated circuit package, a semiconductor device, a die, an integrated circuit and/or PCB described herein. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     In the following description, specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the various aspects of the disclosure. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the aspects may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits may be shown in block diagrams in order to avoid obscuring the aspects in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, structures and techniques may not be shown in detail in order not to obscure the aspects of the disclosure. 
     The present disclosure describes a device package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package) that includes a die, a package substrate coupled to the die, and a first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component coupled to the package substrate. The first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component is configured to provide package level electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. In some implementations, the first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component is embedded in the package substrate. In some implementations, the die includes an internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component that is configured to provide die level electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. In some implementations, the internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component and the first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component are configured to provide cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for some or all of the input/output (I/O) terminals of the die. 
     Exemplary Integrated Circuit (IC) Package Comprising an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection Component 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an example of a device package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configured to provide package level electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. Specifically,  FIG. 2  illustrates an example of an integrated circuit (IC) package  200  that includes a substrate  202 , a die  204 , an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 , and an encapsulation layer  210 . The integrated circuit (IC) package  200  is mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB)  250 . The die  204  may be an integrated circuit (IC) that includes several transistors and/or other electronic components. The die  204  may be a logic die and/or a memory die. As will be further described below, the die  204  may include an internal electrostatic discharge (ESP) protection component  240  that is configured to provide die level electrostatic discharge (ESP) protection. 
     In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  (e.g., first electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component) and/or the internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240  (e.g., second electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component) may be configured to allow the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  to meet at least one electrostatic discharge (ESD) testing model. In some implementations, without the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  and/or the internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240 , the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  may not meet a particular electrostatic discharge (ESD) testing model. Examples of various electrostatic discharge (ESD) testing models are further described below. 
     The substrate  202  may be a package substrate and/or an interposer. The die  204  is coupled (e.g., mounted) to the substrate  202 . More specifically, the die  204  is coupled to the substrate  202  through a first plurality of solder balls  242 . In some implementations, the die  204  may be coupled to the substrate  202  differently. 
     The substrate  202  includes a first dielectric layer  220 , a second dielectric layer  222 , a third dielectric layer  223 , a first solder resist layer  224 , a second solder resist layer  226 , and several interconnects  227 . The first dielectric layer  220  may be a core layer. In some implementations, the first dielectric layer  220  may be a prepeg layer. The second dielectric layer  222  and/or the third dielectric layer  223  may be one or more dielectric layers (e.g., one or more prepeg layers). The interconnects  227  may include traces, pads and/or vias, that are formed in the first dielectric layer  220 , the second dielectric layer  222  and/or the third dielectric layer  223 . The first solder resist layer  224  is formed on a first surface (e.g., bottom surface, surface facing the PCB  250 ) of the substrate  202 . The second solder resist layer  226  is formed on a second surface (e.g., top surface, surface facing the die  204 ) of the substrate  202 . 
     The encapsulation layer  210  at least partially encapsulates the die  204 . The encapsulation layer  210  may include a mold and/or an epoxy fill. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is coupled to the substrate  202 . More specifically, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is coupled to a surface (e.g., bottom surface, surface facing the PCB  250 ) of the substrate  202 . It is noted that the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be coupled to the substrate  202  differently. For example, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be located on a different surface (e.g., top surface, surface facing the die  204 ) of the substrate  202 . In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be located within the encapsulation layer  210 . In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be embedded in the substrate  202 . An example of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component that is embedded in a substrate is further described in detail below in at least  FIG. 8 . 
     The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  provides several technical advantages to the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . 
     First, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  provides better ESD protection than the internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240 . This is because the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is much larger than the internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240 , and is thus able to provide a more robust, reliable and/or powerful ESD protection. The internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240 , if included in the die  204 , is limited by the size of the die  204  and is thus only able to provide limited ESD protection. 
     Second, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is easier to design as a separate component instead of being integrated in the die  204 . The die  204  has many transistor devices and integrating an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component in the die  204  requires a more complex manufacturing process than the manufacturing process of a separate electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 . 
     Third, since the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is a separate electronic component, the die  204  does not need to be redesigned. Instead, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  can be designed separately from the die  204  based on an expected and/or anticipated application (e.g., mobile application, automotive application). Thus, even though the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  are configured to operate under a particular application (e.g., mobile application) and pass a particular testing model (e.g., first testing model), the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is configured to allow the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  to operate when the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  operates under another application (e.g., automotive application) and pass another particular testing model (e.g., second testing model) that is different than the particular testing model. For example, the die  204  may be configured to operate in a mobile device, but with the use of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 , the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  may be implemented with an electronic device in an automotive vehicle (which has higher voltage and/or higher current specifications/requirements), without having to completely redesign the die  204 . 
     In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is coupled (e.g., directly coupled, indirectly coupled) to at least one input/output (I/O) terminal of the die  204 . In some implementations, all of the input/output (I/O) terminals of the die  204  are coupled (e.g., directly coupled, indirectly coupled) to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 . Thus, in some implementations, at least some or all of the input/output (I/O) terminals of the die  204  are protected by the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a first plurality of interconnects  270 , a second plurality of interconnects  272 , and a third plurality of interconnects  274  that are coupled to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is configured to provide package level electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. 
     The first plurality of interconnects  270  are located in/on the substrate  202 . The first plurality of interconnects  270  may include traces, vias, pads, bumps and/or solder interconnects. The first plurality of interconnects  270  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a first input/output (I/O) signal to and from the die  204 . The second plurality of interconnects  272  are located in/on the substrate  202 . The second plurality of interconnects  272  may include traces, vias, pads, bumps and/or solder interconnects. The second plurality of interconnects  272  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a power signal (e.g., Vdd) to the die  204 . The third plurality of interconnects  274  are located in/on the substrate  202 . The third plurality of interconnects  274  may include traces, vias, pads, bumps and/or solder interconnects. The third plurality of interconnects  274  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a ground reference signal (e.g., Vss) from the die  204 . The first plurality of interconnects  270 , the second plurality of interconnects  272  and/or the third plurality of interconnects  272  may be coupled to the die  204  (e.g., through the first plurality of solder balls  242 ). Different implementations may have a different number of interconnects coupled to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 . 
     As mentioned above,  FIG. 2  further illustrates that the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  is coupled (e.g., mounted) on the printed circuit board (PCB)  250  through a second plurality of solder balls  252 . More specifically, the substrate  202  of the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  is coupled to the PCB  250  through the second plurality of solder balls  252 . In some implementations, the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  may be coupled to the PCB  250  differently. 
     In some implementations, the several electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components (e.g., internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240  of the die and the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  of the package substrate) may provide cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . Cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection is further described in detail below in  FIGS. 7 and 10 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may provide package level electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection (e.g., protection of the die  204  and other components in the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 ). In some implementations, providing the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  inside the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  may provide real estate savings in the device, since the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be provided in the available space of the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . 
     In some implementations, the die  204  is configured to operate at a first voltage provided to the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 , and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component (e.g., electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components  206 ,  240 ,  906 ) allows the die  204  to operate when the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  is coupled to a power source that provides a second discharge voltage to the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates that the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is positioned and located underneath the substrate  202 . However, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be positioned and located differently in or on the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . For example, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be located over the substrate  202  and co-planar with the die  204 . In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be at least partially encapsulated by the encapsulation layer  210 . In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  may be embedded in the substrate  202 , which is further described below in  FIG. 8 . 
     Exemplary Electrostatic Discharge Protection (ESD) Components 
     Different implementations may use different designs of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component.  FIGS. 3-6  illustrate various examples of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a profile view of an example of an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  306  that may be implemented with a device package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package). In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  306  may be implemented as the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  described in  FIG. 2 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  306  may be configured as a semiconductor device. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3 , the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  includes the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  306 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  306  includes a first P− (light P doped) layer  300 , a first N− (light N doped) layer  302 , a second P− layer  304 , a first P+ (heavily P doped) layer  308 , a first N+ (heavily N doped) layer  310 , a second P+ layer  312 , a second N− layer  320 , a second N+ layer  322 , a first contact interconnect  330 , a second contact interconnect  340 , a third contact interconnect  342 , and a fourth contact interconnect  350 . 
     The first N− layer  302 , the second P+ layer  312 , and the second N− layer  320  are located in the a first P− layer  300 . The second P− layer  304  and the first N+ layer  310  are located in the first N− layer  302 . The first P+ layer  308  is located in the second P− layer  304 . The second N+ layer  322  is located in the second N− layer  320 . 
     The second P− layer  304  at least partially encapsulates the first P+ layer  308 . The first N− layer  302  at least partially encapsulates the second P− layer  304  and the first N+ layer  310 . The second N− layer  320  at least partially encapsulates the second N+ layer  322 . The first P− layer  300  at least partially encapsulates the first N− layer  302 , the second P+ layer  312  and the second N− layer  320 . 
     The first contact interconnect  330  is coupled to the first P+ layer  308 . The first contact interconnect  330  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a ground reference signal (Vss). The second contact interconnect  340  is coupled to the first N+ layer  310 . The third contact interconnect  342  is coupled to the second P+ layer  312 . The second contact interconnect  340  and the third contact interconnect  342  are configured to provide an electrical path for an input/output (I/O) signal. The fourth contact interconnect  350  is coupled to the second N+ layer  322 . The fourth contact interconnect  350  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a power signal (Vdd). 
     The first contact interconnect  330  may be coupled to the first plurality of interconnects  270  (e.g., through micro bumps and/or solder interconnect). The second contact interconnect  340  and the third contact interconnect  342  may be coupled to the second plurality of interconnects  272  (e.g., through traces, pads, micro bumps and/or solder interconnect). The fourth contact interconnect  350  may be coupled to the third plurality of interconnects  274  (e.g., through micro bumps and/or solder interconnect). 
     In some implementations, the first N− layer  302  and the second P− layer  304  are configured to operate as a first diode  360 , where the first N− layer  302  is a cathode side of the first diode  360 , and the second P− layer  304  is an anode side of the first diode  360 . 
     In some implementations, the first P− layer  300  and the second N− layer  320  are configured to operate as a second diode  370 , where the first P− layer  300  is an anode side of the second diode  370 , and the second N− layer  320  is a cathode side of the second diode  370 . 
     It is noted that different implementations may have different configurations of the various P−, P+, N− and N+ layers, and thus, the configuration shown in  FIG. 3  is merely exemplary. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a profile view of another electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. As shown in  FIG. 4 , the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  includes at least two electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  306   a - b . Thus,  FIG. 4  illustrates that the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  includes a plurality (e.g., array) of electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  306   a - b . As further shown in  FIG. 4 , the various electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  306   a - b  share the first P− (light P doped) layer  300 . In some implementations, there may be one electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  306  for each input/output (I/O) terminal of the die  204 . 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a profile view of an example of another electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  506  that may be implemented with a device package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package). In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  506  may be implemented as the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  described in  FIG. 2 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  506  may be configured as a semiconductor device. 
     The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  506  is similar to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  306  of  FIG. 3 , except that the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  506  also includes a dielectric layer  500 , a first interconnect  530 , a second interconnect  540 , and a third interconnect  550 . 
     The first interconnect  530  is coupled to the first contact interconnect  330 . The second interconnect  540  is coupled to the second contact interconnect  340  and the third contact interconnect  342 . The third interconnect  550  is coupled to the fourth contact interconnect  350 . The first interconnect  530  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a ground reference signal (Vss). The second interconnect  540  may be configured to provide an electrical path for an input/output (I/O) signal. The third interconnect  550  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a power signal (Vdd). The first interconnect  530  may be coupled to the first plurality of interconnects  270  (e.g., through micro bumps and/or solder interconnect). The second interconnect  540  may be coupled to the second plurality of interconnects  272  (e.g., through micro bumps and/or solder interconnect). The third interconnect  550  may be coupled to the third plurality of interconnects  274  (e.g., through micro bumps and/or solder interconnect). 
     Similar to  FIG. 4 , the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  of  FIG. 5  may include one or more (e.g., plurality) of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configuration  506 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a view of an example of another electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. As shown in  FIG. 6 , the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  includes a plurality of electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  506  (e.g.,  506   a - h ) arranged in an array. It is noted that the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  of  FIG. 6  may represent a plurality of electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  306  (e.g.,  306   a - b  or more). It is also noted that for the purpose of clarity, not all the components of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  are shown in  FIG. 6 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  of  FIG. 6  may be configured as a semiconductor device. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an example of how the various electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  506  (e.g.,  506   a - h ) may be electrically coupled together in the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 . More specifically,  FIG. 6  illustrates how some of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  506  may share one or more paths (e.g., one or more electrical paths) for ground reference signals (e.g., Vss) and power signals (e.g., Vdd). As shown in  FIG. 6 , the first interconnect  530   a  is coupled to the first contact interconnect  330  of various electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  506 . Similarly, the third interconnect  550   a  is coupled to the fourth contact interconnect  350  of various electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  506 . 
     The first interconnect  530   a  may be coupled to a first interconnect  600  that is configured to provide an electrical path for a ground reference signal (e.g., Vss). The first interconnect  600  may comprise a via and/or solder interconnect of the substrate  202 . The second interconnect  540   a  may be coupled to a second interconnect  610  that is configured to provide an electrical path for an input/output (I/O) signal. The second interconnect  610  may comprise a via and/or solder interconnect of the substrate  202 . The third interconnect  550   a  may be coupled to a third interconnect  620  that is configured to provide an electrical path for a power signal (e.g., Vdd). The third interconnect  620  may comprise a via and/or solder interconnect of the substrate  202 . 
       FIG. 6  further illustrates that the first interconnect  530   b  is coupled to the first contact interconnect  330  of various other electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  506  (e.g.,  506   e - h ). Similarly, the third interconnect  550   b  is coupled to the fourth contact interconnect  350  of various other electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component configurations  506  (e.g.,  506   e - h ). 
     The first interconnect  530   b  may be coupled to a first interconnect  630  that is configured to provide an electrical path for a ground reference signal (e.g., Vss). The first interconnect  630  may comprise a via and/or solder interconnect of the substrate  202 . The second interconnect  540   b  may be coupled to a second interconnect  640  that is configured to provide an electrical path for an input/output (I/O) signal. The second interconnect  640  may comprise a via and/or solder interconnect of the substrate  202 . The third interconnect  550   b  may be coupled to a third interconnect  650  that is configured to provide an electrical path for a power signal (e.g., Vdd). The third interconnect  650  may comprise a via and/or solder interconnect of the substrate  202 . 
     Examples of how diodes may be configured, arranged and/or electrically coupled to provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection in the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  and the die  204  are further illustrated and described below in at least  FIGS. 7 and 10 . 
     Exemplary Circuit Diagram of an Integrated Circuit (IC) Package Comprising an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection Component 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an exemplary circuit diagram  700  that includes several diodes configured to provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection in an integrated circuit (IC) package (e.g., device package). The circuit diagram  700  includes a die circuit  702 , a package substrate circuit  704 , and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  706 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  706  may be part of the package substrate circuit  704 . The die circuit  702  may represent at least part of a circuit for the die  204 . The package substrate circuit  704  may represent at least part of a circuit for the substrate  202 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  706  may represent at least part of a circuit for the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 . 
     The die circuit  702  includes a first terminal  710  (e.g., internal die circuit I/O), a second terminal  712 , a third terminal  714 , and a fourth terminal  716 . The first terminal  710 , the second terminal  712 , the third terminal  714  and the fourth terminal  716  may be input/output (I/O) terminals for a die (e.g., die  204 ). Different implementations of the circuit diagram  700  may have a different number of terminals. 
     The die circuit  702  also includes a plurality of diodes  720  arranged in series and/or in parallel to each other. The plurality of diodes  720  may be configured as an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component (e.g., internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240 ) of a die (e.g., die  204 ). 
     The plurality of diodes  720  includes a diode  722 , a diode  724 , a diode  726 , and a diode  728 . The diode  722  is coupled in series to the diode  724 . The first terminal  710  is connected between the diode  722  and the diode  724 . The diode  726  is coupled in series to the diode  728 . The second terminal  712  is connected between the diode  726  and the diode  728 . The diode  722  and the diode  724  are in parallel to the diode  726  and the diode  728 . A ground terminal  730  for a ground reference signal (Vss) is coupled to the anode portions of the diode  722  and the diode  726 . A power terminal  732  for a power signal (Vdd) is coupled to the cathode portions of the diode  724  and the diode  728 . 
     The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  706  includes a plurality of diodes  760 . The plurality of diodes  760  may be configured as an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component (e.g., electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 ) that is coupled to a package substrate (e.g., substrate  202 ). 
     The plurality of diodes  760  includes a diode  762 , a diode  764 , a diode  766 , and a diode  768 . The diode  762  is coupled in series to the diode  764 . The diode  766  is coupled in series to the diode  768 . The diode  762  and the diode  764  are in parallel to the diode  766  and the diode  768 . The ground terminal  730  for a ground reference signal (Vss) is coupled to the anode portions of the diode  762  and the diode  766 . The power terminal  732  for a power signal (Vdd) is coupled to the cathode portions of the diode  764  and the diode  768 . A terminal between the diode  722  and the diode  724  is coupled to a terminal between the diode  762  and the diode  764 . A terminal between the diode  726  and the diode  728  is coupled to a terminal between the diode  766  and the diode  768 . 
       FIG. 7  also illustrates that input/output terminals (e.g., first terminal  710 ), ground terminal  730  and power terminal  732  are coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB) circuit  708 . The PCB circuit  708  may represent at least part of a circuit for the PCB  250 . In some implementations, the circuit diagram  700  illustrates how the internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component of the die and the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component of the package substrate may provide cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the integrated circuit (IC) package (e.g., the die of the integrated circuit (IC) package). 
       FIG. 7  illustrates how cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection may be used to provide robust protection for the integrated circuit (IC) package. In some implementations, cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection is the use of two or more electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components (e.g., electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components coupled in parallel and/or in series) used in conjunction with each other to provide a more effective and powerful electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. For example, as an analogy, two resistors coupled in series to each other provide an equivalent resistor that has a higher resistance than each of the individual resistor coupled to each other in series. 
     Similarly, two or more electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components that are coupled to each other provide a cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component that provides greater electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection than each of the individual electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. Thus, by grouping the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components from different portions of the integrated circuit (IC) package, the present disclosure provides an effective, efficient and robust electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. 
     In addition, cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection may provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection even when one of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component fails or does not operate as designed. Thus, cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, through the use of several electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components, may provide fault tolerant electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the integrated circuit (IC) package. For example, in the event that the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component in the die circuit  702  should fail (or not work properly), the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  706  coupled to the package substrate circuit  704  may still work to provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the integrated circuit (IC) package (e.g., die of the IC package). 
     Exemplary Integrated Circuit (IC) Package Comprising an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection Component 
     In some implementations, an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component may be embedded in a package substrate.  FIG. 8  illustrates an example of a device package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component embedded in a package substrate. Specifically,  FIG. 8  illustrates an example of an integrated circuit (IC) package  800  that includes a substrate  802 , the die  204 , an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806 , and the encapsulation layer  210 . The integrated circuit (IC) package  800  is mounted on a printed circuit board (PCB)  250 . The die  204  may be an integrated circuit (IC) that includes several transistors and/or other electronic components. The die  204  may be a logic die and/or a memory die. The die  204  may include an internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240 . 
     The integrated circuit (IC) package  800  of  FIG. 8  is similar to the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  of  FIG. 2 , except that the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806  is embedded in the substrate  802 . In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806  is similar to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 , as described in  FIGS. 3-6 . 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a first plurality of interconnects  870 , a second plurality of interconnects  872 , and a third plurality of interconnects  874  that are coupled to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806 . The first plurality of interconnects  870  are located in/on the substrate  802 . The first plurality of interconnects  870  may include traces, vias and/or pads. The first plurality of interconnects  870  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a first input/output (I/O) signal to and from the die  204 . The second plurality of interconnects  872  are located in/on the substrate  802 . The second plurality of interconnects  872  may include traces, vias and/or pads. The second plurality of interconnects  872  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a power signal (e.g., Vdd) to the die  204 . The third plurality of interconnects  874  are located in/on the substrate  802 . The third plurality of interconnects  874  may include traces, vias and/or pads. The third plurality of interconnects  874  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a ground reference signal (e.g., Vss) from the die  204 . The first plurality of interconnects  870 , the second plurality of interconnects  872  and/or the third plurality of interconnects  872  may be coupled to the die  204  (e.g., through the first plurality of solder balls  242 ). Different implementations may have a different number of interconnects coupled to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806 . 
     In some implementations, the several electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components (e.g., internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240  of the die and the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806  of the package substrate) may provide cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  800 , as described in  FIG. 7  above. 
     Exemplary Integrated Circuit (IC) Package Comprising an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection Component Coupled to an Interposer 
     In some implementations, an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component may be coupled to an interposer.  FIG. 9  illustrates an example of a device package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component coupled to an interposer. Specifically,  FIG. 9  illustrates an example of an integrated circuit (IC) package  200  that includes a substrate  202 , the die  204 , an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 , and the encapsulation layer  210 . The integrated circuit (IC) package  200  is coupled to an interposer  902  through a plurality of solder balls  252 . The interposer  902  is coupled to a printed circuit board (PCB)  250  through a plurality of solder balls  952 . 
     The integrated circuit (IC) package  200  of  FIG. 9  is similar to the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  of  FIG. 2 , except that the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  is coupled to the interposer  902  that includes the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906 . In some implementations, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  is similar to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 , as described in  FIGS. 3-6 . In some implementations, the interposer  902  may be coupled to the integrated circuit (IC) package  800  of  FIG. 8 , instead of the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a first plurality of interconnects  970 , a second plurality of interconnects  972 , and a third plurality of interconnects  974  that are coupled to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906 . The first plurality of interconnects  970  are located in/on the interposer  902 . The first plurality of interconnects  970  may include traces, vias, pads, bumps and/or solder interconnects. The first plurality of interconnects  970  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a first input/output (I/O) signal to and from the die  204 . The second plurality of interconnects  972  are located in/on the interposer  902 . The second plurality of interconnects  972  may include traces, vias, pads, bumps and/or solder interconnects. The second plurality of interconnects  972  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a power signal (e.g., Vdd) to the die  204 . The third plurality of interconnects  974  are located in/on the interposer  902 . The third plurality of interconnects  974  may include traces, vias, pads, bumps and/or solder interconnects. The third plurality of interconnects  974  may be configured to provide an electrical path for a ground reference signal (e.g., Vss) from the die  204 . The first plurality of interconnects  970 , the second plurality of interconnects  972  and/or the third plurality of interconnects  972  may be coupled to the die  204  (e.g., through the first plurality of solder balls  242 , the solder balls  252 ). Different implementations may have a different number of interconnects coupled to the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906 . In addition, the position or location of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  may be different in different implementations. For example, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  may be located over the interposer  902  or embedded in the interposer  902 . 
     In some implementations, the several electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components (e.g., internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240  of the die, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  of the package substrate, and/or the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  of the interposer) may provide cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . Cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection is further described in detail below in  FIG. 10 . 
     Exemplary Circuit Diagram of an Integrated Circuit (IC) Package Comprising an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection Component Coupled to an Interposer 
       FIG. 10  illustrates another exemplary circuit diagram  1000  that includes several diodes configured to provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection in an integrated circuit (IC) package. The circuit diagram  1000  is similar to the circuit diagram  700  of  FIG. 7 , except that it includes additional circuits for additional electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. The circuit diagram  1000  includes the die circuit  702 , the package substrate circuit  704  and the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  706  as described above in  FIG. 7 . 
     The circuit diagram  1000  also includes an interposer circuit  1004 , and an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  1006 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  1006  may be part of the interposer circuit  1004 . The interposer circuit  1004  may represent at least part of a circuit for the interposer  902 . The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  1006  may represent at least part of a circuit for the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906 . 
     The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  1006  includes a plurality of diodes  1060 . The plurality of diodes  1060  may be configured as an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component (e.g., electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906 ) that is coupled to an interposer (e.g., interposer  902 ). 
     The plurality of diodes  1060  includes a diode  1062 , a diode  1064 , a diode  1066 , and a diode  1068 . The diode  1062  is coupled in series to the diode  1064 . The diode  1066  is coupled in series to the diode  1068 . The diode  1062  and the diode  1064  are in parallel to the diode  1066  and the diode  1068 . The ground terminal  1030  for a ground reference signal (Vss) is coupled to the anode portions of the diode  1062  and the diode  1066 . The power terminal  1032  for a power signal (Vdd) is coupled to the cathode portions of the diode  1064  and the diode  1068 . A terminal between the diode  1062  and the diode  1064  is coupled to a terminal between the diode  762  and the diode  764 . A terminal between the diode  1066  and the diode  1066  is coupled to a terminal between the diode  766  and the diode  768 . 
     In some implementations, the circuit diagram  1000  illustrates how the internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240  of the die, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  of the package substrate, and/or the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  of the interposer may provide cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . 
       FIG. 10  illustrates how cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection may be used to provide robust protection for the integrated circuit (IC) package. In some implementations, cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection is the use of two or more electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components (e.g., electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components coupled in parallel and/or in series) used in conjunction with each other to provide a more effective and powerful electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. For example, as an analogy, two resistors coupled in series to each other provide an equivalent resistor that has a higher resistance than each of the individual resistor coupled to each other in series. 
     Similarly, two or more electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components that are coupled to each other provide a cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component that provides greater electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection than each of the individual electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. Thus, by grouping the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components from different portions of the integrated circuit (IC) package, the present disclosure provides an effective, efficient and robust electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. Cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection may include electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection from an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component of the die circuit  702 , an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  706  of the package substrate circuit  704 , and/or an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  1006  of the interposer circuit  1004 . 
     In addition, cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection may provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection even when one or more of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components fail or does not operate as designed. Thus, cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, through the use of several electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components, may provide fault tolerant electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the integrated circuit (IC) package. For example, in the event that the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  706  coupled to the package substrate circuit  704  should fail (or not work properly), the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuit  1006  coupled to the interposer circuit  1004  may still work to provide electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the integrated circuit (IC) package (e.g., die of the IC package). 
     Exemplary Sequence for Fabricating an Integrated Circuit (IC) Package Comprising an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection Component 
     In some implementations, providing/fabricating an integrated circuit (IC) package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component includes several processes.  FIG. 11  (which includes  FIGS. 11A-11C ) illustrates an exemplary sequence for providing/fabricating a device package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package) that an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. In some implementations, the sequence of  FIGS. 11A-11C  may be used to provide/fabricate the integrated circuit (IC) package  800  of  FIG. 8  and/or other integrated circuit (IC) packages described in the present disclosure. 
     It should be noted that the sequence of  FIGS. 11A-11C  may combine one or more stages in order to simplify and/or clarify the sequence for providing/fabricating a integrated circuit (IC) package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. In some implementations, the order of the processes may be changed or modified. 
     Stage  1 , as shown in  FIG. 11A , illustrates a state after a dielectric layer  1100  is provided. The dielectric layer  1100  may be a core layer. In some implementations, the dielectric layer  1100  is provided by a supplier. In some implementations, the dielectric layer  1100  is fabricated (e.g., formed). 
     Stage  2  illustrates a state after a first cavity  1101  and a second cavity  1103  are formed in the dielectric layer  1100 . Different implementations may form the first cavity  1101  and the second cavity  1103  differently. In some implementations, a laser process may be used to form the cavities. 
     Stage  3  illustrates a state after a first metal layer  1102  and a second metal layer  1104  are formed on the dielectric layer  1100 . The forming and patterning of the first metal layer  1102  and the second metal layer  1104  may form and define interconnects (e.g., traces, pads, vias) on the dielectric layer  1100 . Different implementations may use different processes for forming the first metal layer  1102  and the second metal layer  1104 . A photo-lithography process (e.g., photo-etching process) may be use to pattern the metal layers. Patterning methods could include modified semi-additive or semi-additive patterning processes (SAP). 
     Stage  4  illustrates a state after a cavity  1107  is formed in the dielectric layer  1100 . In some implementations, a laser is used to form (e.g., remove) portions of the dielectric layer  1100 . 
     Stage  5  illustrates a state after the dielectric layer  1100  that includes interconnects, is coupled to a carrier  1110 . 
     Stage  6  illustrates a state after an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806  is positioned in the cavity  1107  of the dielectric layer  1100  (e.g., core layer). The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806  may any of the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components described in the present disclosure. The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806  is positioned over the carrier  1110 . 
     Stage  7 , as shown in  FIG. 11B , illustrates a state after a second dielectric layer  1114  is formed on a first surface of the dielectric layer  1100 , the cavity  1107  and the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806 . The second dielectric layer  1114  may be prepeg layer. 
     Stage  8  illustrates a state after the carrier  1110  is decoupled (e.g., detached) from the dielectric layer  1100 . 
     Stage  9  illustrates a state after a third dielectric layer  1116  is formed on a second side of the dielectric layer  1100 . In some implementations, the third dielectric layer  1116  and the second dielectric layer  1114  are the same dielectric layer. Stage  9  illustrates that the second dielectric layer  1114  and/or the third dielectric layer at least partially encapsulates the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806 . 
     Stage  10  illustrates a state after a cavity  1117  is formed in the second dielectric layer  1114 , and a cavity  1119  is formed in the third dielectric layer  1116 . A photo-etching process may be used to form the cavity. Stage  10  involves via cavity formation and patterning for the second and third dielectric layers. Patterning methods could include modified semi-additive or semi-additive patterning processes (SAP). 
     Stage  11  illustrates a state after an interconnect  1120  (e.g., via) and an interconnect  1121  (e.g., trace) are formed in/on the second dielectric layer  1114 , and an interconnect  1122  (e.g., via) and an interconnect  1123  (e.g., trace) are formed in/on the third dielectric layer  1116 . The interconnect  1120  is coupled to the interconnect  1121  and the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806 . 
     Stage  12  illustrates a state after a first solder resist layer  1124  is formed on the second dielectric layer  1114 , and a second solder resist layer  1126  is formed on the third dielectric layer  1116 . Stage  12  illustrates a substrate  1130  that includes the dielectric layer  1100 , the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806 , the second dielectric layer  1114 , the third dielectric layer  1116 , several interconnects (e.g., interconnect  1120 ), the first solder resist layer  1124 , and the second solder resist layer  1126 . The substrate  1130  may be a package substrate. The substrate  1130  may be similar to the substrate  202 . 
     Stage  13 , as shown in  FIG. 11C , illustrates a state after a die  204  is coupled (e.g., mounted) to the substrate  1130  through a plurality of solder balls  1142 . The die  204  may be coupled to the substrate  1130  differently. In some implementations, the die  204  may include an internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240  as described in  FIG. 2 . 
     Stage  14  illustrates a state after an encapsulation layer  210  is formed on the substrate  1130  and the die  204 . In some implementations, the encapsulation layer  210  comprises a mold and/or epoxy fill. 
     Stage  15  illustrates a state after a plurality of solder balls  1160  is coupled to the substrate  1130 . In some implementations, stage  15  illustrates an integrated circuit (IC) package  1170  that includes the substrate  1130 , the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  806 , the die  204 , and the encapsulation layer  210 . In some implementations, the integrated circuit (IC) package  1170  is similar to the integrated circuit (IC) package  800  as described and illustrated in  FIG. 8 . 
     Exemplary Sequence for Fabricating an Integrated Circuit (IC) Package Comprising an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection Component 
     In some implementations, providing/fabricating a device package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component, includes several processes.  FIG. 12  (which includes  FIGS. 12A-12B ) illustrates an exemplary sequence for providing/fabricating a device package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package) that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. In some implementations, the sequence of  FIGS. 12A-12B  may be used to provide/fabricate the integrated circuit (IC) package  900  of  FIG. 9  and/or other integrated circuit (IC) packages described in the present disclosure. 
     It should be noted that the sequence of  FIGS. 12A-12B  may combine one or more stages in order to simplify and/or clarify the sequence for providing/fabricating a integrated circuit (IC) package that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. In some implementations, the order of the processes may be changed or modified. 
     Stage  1 , as shown in  FIG. 12A , illustrates a state after a substrate  202  is provided. The substrate  202  may be a package substrate. The substrate  202  may include at least one dielectric layer (e.g., core layer, prepeg layer), several interconnects (e.g., traces, pads, vias), and at least one solder resist layer (e.g., first solder resist layer, second solder resist layer), as described in  FIGS. 2 and 9 . 
     Stage  2  illustrates a state after a die  204  is coupled (e.g., mounted) to the substrate  202  through a plurality of solder balls  242 . The die  204  may be coupled to the substrate  202  differently. In some implementations, the die  204  may include an internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240  as described in  FIG. 2 . 
     Stage  3  illustrates a state after an encapsulation layer  210  is formed on the substrate  202  and the die  204 . In some implementations, the encapsulation layer  210  comprises a mold and/or epoxy fill. 
     Stage  4  illustrates a state after an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  is coupled (e.g., mounted) to the substrate  202 . In some implementations, solder may be used to couple the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  to the substrate  202 . However, different implementations may couple the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  to the substrate  202  differently. 
     Stage  5  illustrates a state after a plurality of solder balls  252  is coupled to the substrate  202 . In some implementations, stage  5  illustrates an integrated circuit (IC) package  200  that includes the substrate  202 , the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 , the die  204 , and the encapsulation layer  210 . In some implementations, the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  at stage  5  is similar to the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  of  FIG. 2 . 
     Stage  6 , as shown in  FIG. 12B , illustrates a state after an interposer  902  is provided. The interposer  902  includes a dielectric layer  920  and several interconnects  1200 . The interconnects  1200  may includes traces, vias, and/or pads. The interconnects  1200  may include a first plurality of interconnects  970 , a second plurality of interconnects  972 , and a third plurality of interconnects  974 , as described in  FIG. 9 . 
     Stage  7  illustrates a state after an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  is coupled (e.g., mounted) to the interposer  902 . In some implementations, a solder interconnect may be used to couple the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  to the interposer  902 . However, different implementations may couple the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  to the interposer  902  differently. 
     Stage  8  illustrates a state after a plurality of solder balls  952  is coupled to the interposer  902 . 
     Stage  9  illustrates a state after the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  is coupled to the interposer  902  that includes the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906 . 
     Exemplary Flow Diagram of a Method for Fabricating an Integrated Circuit (IC) Package Comprising an Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Protection Component 
       FIG. 13  illustrates an exemplary flow diagram of a method  1300  for providing/fabricating a device package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package) that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component. In some implementations, the method of  FIG. 13  may be used to provide/fabricate the integrated circuit (IC) package  200  of  FIG. 9  and/or other integrated circuit (IC) packages described in the present disclosure. 
     It should be noted that the flow diagram of  FIG. 13  may combine one or more processes in order to simplify and/or clarify the method for providing an integrated circuit (IC) package. In some implementations, the order of the processes may be changed or modified. 
     The method provides (at  1305 ) a substrate. In some implementations, the substrate is provided by a supplier. In some implementations, the substrate is fabricated (e.g., formed). The substrate may be a package substrate. The substrate (e.g., substrate  202 ) may include a dielectric layer (e.g., core layer) and metal layers on the dielectric layer. 
     The method forms (at  1310 ) several interconnects in and on the substrate. Different implementations may use different processes for forming the interconnects. A photo-lithography process (e.g., photo-etching process) may be use to pattern metal layer into interconnects. Patterning methods could include modified semi-additive or semi-additive patterning processes (SAP). 
     The method couples (at  1315 ) an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component (e.g., electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206 ) to the substrate (e.g., substrate  202 ). The electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component may be coupled to the substrate through a solder interconnect (or through bump and solder interconnect). 
     The method couples (at  1320 ) a die (e.g., die  204 ) to the substrate (e.g., substrate  202 ). The die may include an internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component (e.g., electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240 ). A plurality of solder balls may be used to couple the die to the substrate. 
     The method forms (at  1325 ) an encapsulation layer (e.g., encapsulation layer  210 ) over the die and the substrate. The encapsulation layer may comprise a mold and/or an epoxy fill. In some implementations, the substrate, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component, the die and the encapsulation layer may form an integrated circuit (IC) package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package  200 ). 
     The method couples (at  1330 ) the integrated circuit (IC) package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package  200 ) to an interposer (e.g., interposer  902 ) that includes an electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component (e.g., electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906 ). In some implementations, the several electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection components (e.g., internal electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  240  of the die, the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  206  of the package substrate, and/or the electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection component  906  of the interposer) may be configured to provide cumulative electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection for the die  204  and the integrated circuit (IC) package  200 . 
     Electrostatic Discharge Protection (ESD) Models 
     An electrostatic discharge (ESD) is the sudden flow of electricity between two electrically charged objects caused by contact, an electrical short, or dielectric breakdown. A buildup of static electricity may be caused by tribocharging or by electrostatic induction. The ESD occurs when objects with different charges are brought close together or when the dielectric between them breaks down. 
     An electrostatic discharge (ESD) can cause damage to sensitive electronic devices (e.g., dies, integrated circuit (IC) packages, device packages). These devices can suffer permanent damage when subjected to high voltages. Thus, these devices are designed to withstand some level of electrostatic discharge (ESD). The level of electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection will depend on the assembly environment. For example, a mobile device may have a different level of electrostatic discharge (ESD) requirement than the level of electrostatic discharge (ESD) requirement of an automotive device. 
     To account for these different applications (e.g., mobile applications, automotive applications), different testing models have been established to test and determine whether a device or device package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package) is appropriate for a particular application (e.g., whether a device package can be used in an automotive device and/or automotive application). 
     Examples of electrostatic discharge (ESD) testing models include a human body model (HBM) testing model and a charged device model (CDM) testing model. 
     The HBM testing model is used to characterize the susceptibility of an electronic component or electronic device to ESD damage. The test simulates an electrical discharge of a human onto an electronic component, which could occur if a human has built up charge. 
     In some implementations, the HBM testing model is setup by applying a high-voltage supply in series with a charging resistor (e.g., a 1-MΩ resistor or higher) and a capacitor (e.g., a 100-pF capacitor). After the capacitor is fully charged, a switch is used to remove it from the high-voltage supply and series resistor and to apply it in series with a discharge resistor (e.g., a 1.5-kΩ resistor) and the device under test (DUT) (e.g., device package, integrated circuit (IC) package). The voltage thus fully dissipates through the discharge resistor and the DUT. Different HBM testing models may use different values for the high-voltage supply range, depending on the application of the device. In some implementations, the voltage used during the test may be between about 0.5 kV and 4 kV. Different implementations may use different peak current that is between about 0.4 A and 3 A. In some implementations, the HBM testing models may use a discharge time of about 300 nanoseconds (nS) or less. 
     The CDM testing model is used to model what often happen in automated-manufacturing environments in which machines often remain on indefinitely, causing the electronic integrated circuits (ICs) to electrically charge over time. When the part of the IC comes into contact with a grounded conductor, the built-up charge on the part&#39;s capacitance discharges. 
     In some implementations, a CDM testing model may use voltages between about 250V and 1000V. Examples of CDM testing models include a 250V CDM model, a 500V CDM model, a 750V CDM model, and a 1000V CDM model. Different implementations may use a different peak current that is between about 4 A and 12 A. In some implementations, the CDM testing models may use a discharge time of about 1 nanosecond (nS) or less. 
     As mentioned above, the ESD testing model that is used will depend on the application the device is intended to be used in or implemented in. For example, a mobile device may require a particular ESD testing model that is different than for an ESD testing model of an automotive device. 
     In some implementations, for example, a device package (e.g., integrated circuit (IC) package) designed to be used in a mobile device or as a mobile application, may pass a testing model for a mobile device, but may not be able to pass a testing model for an automotive device or an automotive application, without making changes to the device circuit or package. In some implementations, one or more electrostatic discharge protection (ESD) components are provided in a device package in order to ensure that the device package passes a different testing model. In some implementations, using this approach avoids having to redesign the die in the device package, while providing a device package that is used and implemented in an electronic device that is different than what the die and device package were initially designed for, saving substantial design and manufacturing costs. 
     Exemplary Electronic Devices 
       FIG. 14  illustrates various electronic devices that may be integrated with any of the aforementioned integrated circuit device, semiconductor device, integrated circuit, die, interposer, package or package-on-package (PoP). For example, a mobile phone device  1402 , a laptop computer device  1404 , and a fixed location terminal device  1406  may include an integrated circuit device  1400  as described herein. The integrated circuit device  1400  may be, for example, any of the integrated circuits, dies, integrated circuit devices, integrated circuit device packages, integrated circuit devices, package-on-package devices described herein. The devices  1402 ,  1404 ,  1406  illustrated in  FIG. 14  are merely exemplary. Other electronic devices may also feature the integrated circuit device  1400  including, but not limited to, a group of devices (e.g., electronic devices) that includes mobile devices, hand-held personal communication systems (PCS) units, portable data units such as personal digital assistants, global positioning system (GPS) enabled devices, navigation devices, set top boxes, music players, video players, entertainment units, fixed location data units such as meter reading equipment, communications devices, smartphones, tablet computers, computers, wearable devices, servers, routers, electronic devices implemented in automotive vehicles (e.g., autonomous vehicles), or any other device that stores or retrieves data or computer instructions, or any combination thereof. 
     One or more of the components, features, and/or functions illustrated in  FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11A-11C, 12A-12B, 13 , and/or  14  may be rearranged and/or combined into a single component, feature or function or embodied in several components, or functions. Additional elements, components, and/or functions may also be added without departing from the disclosure. It should also be noted that  FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11A-11C, 12A-12B, 13 , and/or  14  and its corresponding description in the present disclosure is not limited to dies and/or ICs. In some implementations,  FIGS. 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11A-11C, 12A-12B, 13 , and/or  14  and its corresponding description may be used to manufacture, create, provide, and/or produce integrated circuit devices. In some implementations, a device may include a die, a die package, an integrated circuit (IC), an integrated circuit device, an integrated circuit (IC) package, a device package, a wafer, a semiconductor device, a package on package structure, and/or an interposer. 
     The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation or aspect described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects of the disclosure. Likewise, the term “aspects” does not require that all aspects of the disclosure include the discussed feature, advantage or mode of operation. The term “coupled” is used herein to refer to the direct or indirect coupling between two objects. For example, if object A physically touches object B, and object B touches object C, then objects A and C may still be considered coupled to one another—even if they do not directly physically touch each other. 
     Also, it is noted that the implementations may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed. 
     The various features of the disclosure described herein can be implemented in different systems without departing from the disclosure. It should be noted that the foregoing aspects of the disclosure are merely examples and are not to be construed as limiting the disclosure. The description of the aspects of the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative, and not to limit the scope of the claims. As such, the present teachings can be readily applied to other types of apparatuses and many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.