Patent ID: 10283621

Abstract:
Disclosed is a method of forming an integrated circuit (IC) that incorporates multiple vertical field effect transistors (VFETs) (e.g., in a VFET array). In the method, self-aligned gates for each pair of VFETs and a self-aligned gate extension for contacting those self-aligned gates are essentially simultaneously formed such that the gates wrap around a pair of semiconductor fins, which are in end-to-end alignment, and such that the gate extension fills the space between adjacent ends of those semiconductor fins. By forming self-aligned gates and a self-aligned gate extension for a pair of VFETs, the method avoids the need for lithographically patterning extension cut isolation regions between adjacent pairs of VFETs in a VFET array. Thus, the method enables implementation of VFET array designs with a reduced fin pitch without incurring defects caused, for example, by overlay errors. Also disclosed herein is an IC formed according to the method.