Abstract:
The present invention provides a SWP (surface wave plasma) processing system that does not create underdense conditions when operating at low microwave power and high gas pressure, thereby achieving a larger process window. The DC ring subsystem can be used to adjust the edge to central plasma density ratio to achieve uniformity control in the SWP processing system.

Description:
[0001]    This application is based on and claims the benefit of and priority to copending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/144,128, entitled “Plasma Generation and Control using a DC Ring”, filed on Apr. 7, 2015, the entire contents of which are herein incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to substrate/wafer processing, and more particularly to Surface Wave Plasma (SWP) processing systems and methods for processing substrates and/or semiconductor wafers using SWP processing systems. 
         [0004]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0005]    Typically, during semiconductor processing, a (dry) plasma etch process is utilized to remove or etch material along fine lines or within vias or contacts patterned on a semiconductor substrate. The plasma etch process generally involves positioning a semiconductor substrate with an overlying patterned, protective layer, for example a photoresist layer, into a process chamber. 
         [0006]    Once the substrate is positioned within the chamber, an ionizable, dissociative gas mixture is introduced within the chamber at a pre-specified flow rate, while a vacuum pump is throttled to achieve an ambient process pressure. Thereafter, a plasma is formed when a portion of the gas species present are ionized following a collision with an energetic electron. Moreover, the heated electrons serve to dissociate some species of the mixture gas species and create reactant specie(s) suitable for the etching exposed surfaces. Once the plasma is formed, any exposed surfaces of the substrate are etched by the plasma. The process is adjusted to achieve optimal conditions, including an appropriate concentration of desirable reactant and ion populations to etch various features (e.g., trenches, vias, contacts, etc.) in the exposed regions of substrate. Such substrate materials where etching is required include silicon dioxide (SiO 2 ), poly-silicon, and silicon nitride, for example. 
         [0007]    Conventionally, various techniques have been implemented for exciting a gas into plasma for the treatment of a substrate during semiconductor device fabrication, as described above. In particular, (“parallel plate”) capacitively coupled plasma (CCP) processing systems, or inductively coupled plasma (ICP) processing systems have been utilized commonly for plasma excitation. Among other types of plasma sources, there are microwave plasma sources (including those utilizing electron-cyclotron resonance (ECR)), surface wave plasma (SWP) sources, and helicon plasma sources. 
         [0008]    It is becoming common wisdom that microwave SWP systems offer improved plasma processing performance, particularly for etching processes, over CCP systems, ICP systems and resonantly heated systems. Microwave SWP systems produce a high degree of ionization at a relatively lower Boltzmann electron temperature (T e ). In addition, SWP sources generally produce plasma richer in electronically excited molecular species with reduced molecular dissociation. However, the practical implementation of microwave SWP systems still suffers from several deficiencies including, for example, plasma stability and uniformity. SWP plasma is a diffusion plasma in nature and is non-uniform in a radial distribution, and can sometimes have center-high and edge-low plasma densities. Adding a uniformity control knob can improve the SWP plasma uniformity. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    Microwave SWP plasma can become underdense when operating at low microwave power and high pressure or operating in pulsing mode, and in these systems, one or more auxiliary ionization sources can be added to avoid the underdense situations and enlarge the operating window. For example, making the microwave SWP plasma into an overdense plasma can be a solution. 
         [0010]    In various embodiments, a DC ring or a DC electric multiple bucket which can be biased negatively and continually/pulsed or pulsing biased positively and negatively can be used to prevent plasma from going to underdense because of the emission of secondary electrons from the surface of the DC ring and confined ionization due to hollow cathode effect. The DC electric multiple bucket can also confine and enhance the ionization just near the DC ring, which is located at the edge of the chamber and below the SWP window. In addition, the DC ring can also be used in other types of plasma sources, such as inductively-coupled (ICP) plasma sources, and capacitively-coupled (CCP) plasma sources. 
         [0011]    In some configurations, a Surface Wave Plasma (SWP) source can be combined with a DC ring subsystem and a bottom RF subsystem in one SWP processing system, and these subsystems can be used together or individually depending on application. The DC ring can be operated along and maintain the discharge after the first ignition using other plasma sources, such as SWP sources. 
         [0012]    The present invention provides a SWP processing system that does not create underdense conditions when operating at low microwave power and high gas pressure, thereby achieving a larger process window. The DC ring subsystem can be used to adjust the edge to central plasma density ratio to achieve uniformity control in the SWP processing system. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0013]    Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings in which corresponding reference symbols indicate corresponding parts, and in which: 
           [0014]      FIG. 1  illustrates an exemplary view of a Surface Wave Plasma (SWP) processing system according to embodiments of the invention; 
           [0015]      FIGS. 2A-2B  illustrate simplified views of a second exemplary power subsystem, a second exemplary distribution subsystem, and a second exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention; 
           [0016]      FIGS. 3A-3B  illustrate simplified views of a third exemplary power subsystem, a third exemplary distribution subsystem, and a third exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention; 
           [0017]      FIGS. 4A-4B  illustrate simplified views of a fourth exemplary power subsystem, a fourth exemplary distribution subsystem, and a fourth exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention; 
           [0018]      FIGS. 5A-5B  illustrate simplified views of a fifth exemplary power subsystem, a fifth exemplary distribution subsystem, and a fifth exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention; 
           [0019]      FIGS. 6A-6B  illustrate simplified views of a sixth exemplary power subsystem, a sixth exemplary distribution subsystem, and a sixth exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention; 
           [0020]      FIGS. 7A-7B  illustrate simplified views of a seventh exemplary power subsystem, a seventh exemplary distribution subsystem, and a seventh exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention; 
           [0021]      FIGS. 8A and 8B  illustrate exemplary views of a first EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments; 
           [0022]      FIGS. 9A and 9B  illustrate exemplary views of a second EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments; 
           [0023]      FIGS. 10A and 10B  illustrate exemplary views of a third EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments; 
           [0024]      FIGS. 11A and 11B  illustrate exemplary views of a fourth EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments; 
           [0025]      FIGS. 12A and 12B  illustrate exemplary views of a fifth EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments; 
           [0026]      FIGS. 13A and 13B  illustrate exemplary views of a sixth EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments; 
           [0027]      FIGS. 14A and 14B  illustrate exemplary views of a seventh EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments; and 
           [0028]      FIG. 15  illustrates a flow diagram for an exemplary operating procedure for a SWP processing system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0029]    SWP plasma sources and SWP processing systems are disclosed in various embodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the various embodiments may be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or with other replacement and/or additional methods, materials, or components. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring aspects of various embodiments of the invention. 
         [0030]    Similarly, for purposes of explanation, specific numbers, materials, and configurations are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. Nevertheless, the invention may be practiced without specific details. Furthermore, it is understood that the various embodiments shown in the figures are illustrative representations and are not necessarily drawn to scale. 
         [0031]    Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” or variation thereof means that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention, but do not denote that they are present in every embodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases such as “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment of the invention. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. 
         [0032]    Nonetheless, it should be appreciated that, contained within the description are features, which, notwithstanding the inventive nature of the general concepts being explained, are also of an inventive nature. 
         [0033]    Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several views,  FIG. 1A  illustrates a first Surface Wave Plasma (SWP) processing system  100  according to embodiments of the invention. The SWP processing system  100  may be used in a dry plasma etching system or a plasma enhanced deposition system. 
         [0034]      FIG. 1  illustrates a first SWP processing system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The SWP processing system  100  can comprise a Surface Wave Plasma (SWP) source  150  having a slot antenna  146  therein. Alternatively, the SWP processing system  100  may be configured differently. 
         [0035]    The SWP processing system  100  can comprise a process chamber  110  configured to define a process space  115 . The process chamber  110  that can be configured using a resonator plate  160  and a plurality of chamber walls  112  coupled to each other and the resonator plate  160 . For example, the chamber walls  112  can have wall thicknesses (t) associated therewith, and the wall thicknesses (t) can vary from about 1 mm to about 5 mm. The resonator plate  160  have a resonator plate thickness associated therewith, and the resonator plate thickness can vary from about 1 mm to about 10 mm. The resonator plate  160  can have one or more recesses  165  associated therewith, and the diameter (d 1 ) of the recesses  165  can vary from about 1 mm to about 50 mm. 
         [0036]    The process chamber  110  can comprise a substrate holder  120  configured to support a substrate  105 . The substrate  105  can be exposed to plasma and/or process chemistry in process space  115 . The SWP processing system  100  can comprise a SWP source  150  coupled to the process chamber  110 , and configured to form plasma in the process space  115 . 
         [0037]    One or more electromagnetic (EM) sources  190  can be coupled to the SWP source  150 , and the EM energy generated by the EM source  190  can flow through a match network/phase shifter  191  to a tuner network/isolator  192  for absorbing EM energy reflected back to the EM source  190 . The EM energy can be converted to a TEM (transverse electromagnetic) mode via the tuner network/isolator  192 . A tuner may be employed for impedance matching, and improved power transfer. For example, the EM source  190 , the match network/phase shifter  191 , and the tuner network/isolator  192  can operate from about 500 MHz to about 5000 MHz. 
         [0038]    The SWP source  150  can comprise a feed assembly  140  having an inner conductor  141 , an outer conductor  142 , an insulator  143 , and a slot antenna  146  having a plurality of first slots  148  and a plurality of second slots  149  coupled between the inner conductor  141  and the outer conductor  142 . The plurality of slots ( 148  and  149 ) permits the coupling of EM energy from a first region above the slot antenna  146  to a second region below the slot antenna  146 . 
         [0039]    The design of the slot antenna  146  can be used to control the spatial uniformity of the plasma in process space  115 . For example, the number, geometry, size, and distribution of the slots ( 148 , and  149 ) are all factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity of the plasma formed in the process space  115 . 
         [0040]    Some exemplary SWP sources  150  can comprise a slow wave plate  144 , and the design of the slow wave plate  144  can be used to control the spatial uniformity of the plasma in process space  115 . For example, the geometry, size, and plate material can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity of the plasma formed in the process space  115 . Alternatively, the slow wave plate  144  may be configured differently or may not be required. 
         [0041]    Other exemplary SWP sources  150  can comprise a resonator plate  160 , and the design of the resonator plate  160  can be used to control the spatial uniformity of the plasma in process space  115 . For example, the geometry, size, and the resonator plate material can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity of the plasma formed in the process space  115 . Alternatively, the resonator plate  160  may be configured differently or may not be required. 
         [0042]    Alternatively, the SWP sources may comprise a cover plate (not shown), and the design of the cover plate may be used to control the spatial uniformity of the plasma in process space  115 . For example, the geometry, size, and the cover plate material may be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity of the plasma formed in the process space  115 . 
         [0043]    Other additional exemplary SWP sources  150  can comprise one or more fluid channels  156  that can be configured to flow a temperature control fluid for temperature control of the SWP source  150 . The design of the fluid channels  156  can be used to control the spatial uniformity of the plasma in process space  115 . For example, the geometry, size, and flow rate of the fluid channels  156  can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity of the plasma formed in the process space  115 . Alternatively, the fluid channels  156  may be configured differently or may not be required. 
         [0044]    The EM energy can be coupled to the SWP source  150  via the feed assembly  140 , wherein another mode change occurs from the TEM mode in the feed assembly  140  to a TM (transverse magnetic) mode. Additional details regarding the design of the feed assembly  140  and the slot antenna  146  can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,024,716, entitled “Plasma processing apparatus for etching, ashing, and film-formation”; the content of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
         [0045]    The first recesses  165  can extend first depths (y 1 ) into the resonator plate  160 , and the first depths (y 1 ) can be established relative to the plasma-facing surface  161  of the resonator plate  160 . The first depths (y 1 ) can be wavelength-dependent and can vary from about (λ/20) to about (10λ). Alternatively, the first depths (y 1 ) may vary from about 1 mm to about 5 mm. For example, the first diameter (d 1 ) of the recesses  165  and the first depths (y 1 ) can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity of the plasma formed in the process space  115 . Alternatively, the first recesses  165  may be configured differently or may not be required. 
         [0046]    The SWP processing system  100  can comprise a power subsystem  170  that can be coupled to a distribution subsystem  172 , and the distribution subsystem  172  can be coupled to a Direct Current (DC) ring subsystem  175 . The DC ring subsystem  175  can be coupled through the chamber wall  112  and can be configured to surround the process space  115 . During operation, the DC ring subsystem  175  can provide secondary electrons to the process space and create a cylindrical diffusion column  176  that can surround the process space  115 . 
         [0047]    In some embodiments, the power subsystem  170  can provide DC signals to the distribution subsystem  172  and the DC ring subsystem  175 . For example, the DC signals can include positive DC voltages, negative DC voltages, or pulsed DC voltages, or any combination thereof, and the DC signals can vary from about −5000 V to about +5000 V. Alternatively, the power subsystem  170  can provide alternating current (AC) signals to the distribution subsystem  172  and the DC ring subsystem  175 . 
         [0048]    In some embodiments, the DC ring subsystem  175  can be configured as a cylindrical ring structure and can include can include metallic components, semiconductor components, dielectric components, switching elements, measuring elements, protection elements, isolation elements, combining elements, and/or separating elements. In other embodiments, the DC ring subsystem  175  can be configured as a segmented cylindrical ring structure, and the distribution subsystem  172  can be coupled to each segment in the segmented cylindrical ring structure. 
         [0049]    In various embodiments, the distribution subsystem  172  can include metallic components, semiconductor components, switching elements, measuring elements, protection elements, isolation elements, combining elements, and/or separating elements. 
         [0050]    The controller  195  can be coupled to the power subsystem  170 , the distribution subsystem  172 , and the DC ring subsystem  175 , and the controller  195  can use process recipes to establish, control, and optimize the power subsystem  170 , the distribution subsystem  172 , and the DC ring subsystem  175  to control the plasma uniformity within the process space  115 . 
         [0051]    In some embodiments, the SWP processing system  100  can be configured to form plasma in the process space  115  as the substrate holder  120  and the substrate are positioned within the process space  115 . Alternatively, the SWP processing system  100  may be configured to form plasma in the process space  115  as the substrate holder  120  and the substrate are moved through the process space  115 . 
         [0052]    The controller  195  can be coupled  196  to the EM source  190 , the match network/phase shifter  191 , and the tuner network/isolator  192 , and the controller  195  can use process recipes to establish, control, and optimize the EM source  190 , the match network/phase shifter  191 , and the tuner network/isolator  192  to control the plasma uniformity within the process space  115 . For example, the EM source  190  can operate at frequencies from about 500 MHz to about 5000 MHz. In addition, the controller  195  can be coupled  196  to the process sensors  107 , and the controller  195  can use process recipes to establish, control, and optimize the data from the process sensors  107  to control the plasma uniformity within the process space  115 . 
         [0053]    Some of the SWP processing systems  100  can include a pressure control system  125  and exhaust port  126  coupled to the process chamber  110 , and configured to evacuate the process chamber  110 , as well as control the pressure within the process chamber  110 . Alternatively, the pressure control system  125  and/or the exhaust port  126  may not be required. 
         [0054]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , the SWP processing system  100  can comprise a first gas supply system  180  coupled to one or more first flow elements  181  that can be coupled to upper portion of the process chamber  110 . The first flow elements  181  can be configured to introduce a first process gas through the first recess  165  and into the process space  115 , and can include flow control and/or flow measuring devices. In addition, the SWP processing system  100  can comprise a second gas supply system  182  coupled to one or more second flow elements  183  that can be coupled to the process chamber  110 . The second flow elements  183  can be configured to introduce a second process gas to process space  115 , and can include flow control and/or flow measuring devices. Alternatively, the second gas supply system  182  and/or the second flow elements  183  may be configured differently or may not be required. 
         [0055]    During dry plasma etching, the process gas may comprise an etchant, a passivant, or an inert gas, or a combination of two or more thereof. For example, when plasma etching a dielectric film such as silicon oxide (SiO x ) or silicon nitride (Si x N y ), the plasma etch gas composition generally includes a fluorocarbon-based chemistry (C x F y ) such as at least one of C 4 F 8 , C 5 F 8 , C 3 F 6 , C 4 F 6 , CF 4 , etc., and/or may include a fluorohydrocarbon-based chemistry (C x H y F z ) such as at least one of CHF 3 , CH 2 F 2 , etc., and can have at least one of an inert gas, oxygen, CO or CO 2 . Additionally, for example, when etching polycrystalline silicon (poliesilicon), the plasma etch gas composition generally includes a halogen-containing gas such as HBr, Cl 2 , NF 3 , or SF 6  or a combination of two or more thereof, and may include fluorohydrocarbon-based chemistry (C x H y F z ) such as at least one of CHF 3 , CH 2 F 2 , etc., and at least one of an inert gas, oxygen, CO or CO 2 , or two or more thereof. During plasma-enhanced deposition, the process gas may comprise a film forming precursor, a reduction gas, or an inert gas, or a combination of two or more thereof. 
         [0056]    Still referring to  FIG. 1A , a substrate holder  120 , and a lower electrode  121  are shown. When present, the lower electrode  121  can be used to couple Radio Frequency (RF) power to plasma in process space  115 . For example, lower electrode  121  can be electrically biased at an RF voltage via the transmission of RF power from RF generator  130  through impedance match network  131  and RF sensor  135  to lower electrode  121 . The RF bias can serve to heat electrons to form and/or maintain the plasma. A typical frequency for the RF bias can range from 1 MHz to 100 MHz and is preferably 13.56 MHz. Alternatively, RF power may be applied to the lower electrode  121  at multiple frequencies. Furthermore, impedance match network  131  can serve to maximize the transfer of RF power to the plasma in process chamber  110  by minimizing the reflected power, and the RF power can vary from about 0 watts to about 5000 watts. Various match network topologies and automatic control methods can be utilized. The RF sensor  135  can measure the power levels and/or frequencies associated with the fundamental signals, harmonic signals, and/or intermodulation signals. In addition, the controller  195  can be coupled  196  to the RF generator  130 , the impedance match network  131 , and the RF sensor  135 , and the controller  195  can use process recipes to establish, control, and optimize the data to and from the RF generator  130 , the impedance match network  131 , and the RF sensor  135  to control the DC/SWP plasma uniformity within the process space  115 . 
         [0057]    Some of the SWP processing systems  100  can include a pressure control system  125  and exhaust port  126  coupled to the process chamber  110 , and configured to evacuate the process chamber  110 , as well as control the pressure within the process chamber  110 . Alternatively, the pressure control system  125  and/or the exhaust port  126  may not be required or configured differently. 
         [0058]      FIGS. 2A-2B  illustrate simplified views of a second exemplary power subsystem, a second exemplary distribution subsystem, and a second exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention. 
         [0059]    In  FIG. 2A , the top view  200   a  shows an exemplary power subsystem  270  coupled to an exemplary distribution subsystem  272  that is coupled to an exemplary ring subsystem  275 . As shown in  FIG. 2A , the ring subsystem  275  can be configured as a cylindrical ring structure and can include can include metallic components, semiconductor components, dielectric components, switching elements, measuring elements, protection elements, isolation elements, combining elements, and/or separating elements. The ring subsystem  275  can be coupled to a distribution subsystem  272 , and the distribution subsystem  272  can be coupled to a power subsystem  270 . During operation, the ring subsystem  275  can provide secondary electrons  271  to the space inside the cylindrical ring structure of the ring subsystem  275 . 
         [0060]    In some embodiments, the power subsystem  270  can provide DC signals to the distribution subsystem  272  and the ring subsystem  275 . For example, the DC signals can include positive DC voltages, negative DC voltages, or pulsed DC voltages, or any combination thereof, and the DC signals can vary from about −5000 V to about +5000 V. Alternatively, the power subsystem  270  can provide AC signals to the distribution subsystem  272  and the ring subsystem  275 . 
         [0061]    The ring subsystem  275  can have an inner diameter (d r1 ) and an outer diameter (d r2 ). The inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 100 mm to about 500 mm. The difference between the inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the chamber walls ( FIG. 1, 112 ) and can vary from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. Alternatively, the ring subsystem  275  may be configured differently. 
         [0062]    In  FIG. 2B , a side view  200   b  shows a side view of the ring subsystem  275 . The ring subsystem  275  can have a thickness (t r1 ). The thickness (t r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 10 mm to about 50 mm. 
         [0063]      FIGS. 3A-3B  illustrate simplified views of a third exemplary power subsystem, a third exemplary distribution subsystem, and a third exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention. 
         [0064]    In  FIG. 3A , the top view  300   a  shows a third exemplary power subsystem  370  coupled to a third exemplary distribution subsystem  372  that is coupled to a third exemplary ring subsystem  375 . As shown in  FIG. 3A , the third ring subsystem  375  can be configured as a segmented cylindrical ring structure and can include can include metallic components, semiconductor components, dielectric components, switching elements, measuring elements, protection elements, isolation elements, combining elements, and/or separating elements. The third ring subsystem  375  can be coupled to a third distribution subsystem  372 , and the third distribution subsystem  372  can be coupled to a third power subsystem  370 . During operation, the third ring subsystem ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ) can provide secondary electrons ( 371   a ,  371   b ,  371   c ,  371   d ,  371   e ,  371   f ,  371   g , and  371   h ) to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure of the ring subsystem ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ). 
         [0065]    In some embodiments, the third power subsystem  370  can provide DC signals to the third distribution subsystem  372  and the third ring subsystem ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ). For example, the DC signals can include positive DC voltages, negative DC voltages, or pulsed DC voltages, or any combination thereof, and the DC signals can vary from about −5000 V to about +5000 V. Alternatively, the third power subsystem  370  can provide AC signals to the third distribution subsystem  372  and the third ring subsystem ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ). 
         [0066]    The third ring subsystem ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ) can have an inner diameter (d r1 ) and an outer diameter (d r2 ). The inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 100 mm to about 500 mm. The difference between the inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the chamber walls ( FIG. 1, 112 ) and can vary from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. Alternatively, the third ring subsystem ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ) may be configured differently. 
         [0067]    In  FIG. 3B , a side view  300   b  shows a side view of the third ring subsystem ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ). Alternatively, the number of segments may be different. Each of the ring segments ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ) can have thicknesses (t r1 ). The thickness (t r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 10 mm to about 50 mm. Alternatively, the segment thicknesses (t r1 ) may be different. Each of the ring segments ( 375   a ,  375   b ,  375   c ,  375   d ,  375   e ,  375   f ,  375   g , and  375   h ) can have a gap thickness (g r1 ) associated therewith. The gap thicknesses (g r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm. Alternatively, the gap thicknesses (g r1 ) may be different. 
         [0068]      FIGS. 4A-4B  illustrate simplified views of a fourth exemplary power subsystem, a third exemplary distribution subsystem, and a third exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention. 
         [0069]    In  FIG. 4A , the top view  400   a  shows a plurality of power subsystems ( 470   a ,  470   b ,  470   c ,  470   d ,  470   e ,  470   f ,  470   g , and  470   h ) coupled to a plurality of distribution subsystems ( 472   a ,  472   b ,  472   c ,  472   d ,  472   e ,  472   f ,  472   g , and  472   h ) that can be coupled to a pluarity of ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). For example, the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ) can be configured as a segmented cylindrical ring structure and can include can include metallic components, semiconductor components, dielectric components, switching elements, measuring elements, protection elements, isolation elements, combining elements, and/or separating elements. 
         [0070]    A first power subsystem  470   a  can be coupled to a first distribution subsystem  472   a  that can be coupled to a first ring subsystem  475   a . The first power subsystem  470   a  can provide first DC signals to the first distribution subsystem  472   a  and the first ring subsystem  475   a . During operation, the first ring subsystem  475   a  can provide secondary electrons  471   a  to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0071]    A second exemplary power subsystem  470   b  can be coupled to a second exemplary distribution subsystem  472   b  that can be coupled to a second exemplary ring subsystem  475   b . The second power subsystem  470   b  can provide second DC signals to the second distribution subsystem  472   b  and the second ring subsystem  475   b . During operation, the second ring subsystem  475   b  can provide a second set of secondary electrons  471   b  to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0072]    A third exemplary power subsystem  470   c  can be coupled to a third exemplary distribution subsystem  472   c  that can be coupled to a third exemplary ring subsystem  475   c . The third power subsystem  470   c  can provide third DC signals to the third distribution subsystem  472   c  and the third ring subsystem  475   c . During operation, the third ring subsystem  475   c  can provide a third set of secondary electrons  471   c  to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0073]    A fourth exemplary power subsystem  470   d  can be coupled to a fourth exemplary distribution subsystem  472   d  that can be coupled to a fourth exemplary ring subsystem  475   d . The fourth power subsystem  470   d  can provide fourth DC signals to the fourth distribution subsystem  472   d  and the fourth ring subsystem  475   d . During operation, the fourth ring subsystem  475   d  can provide a fourth set of secondary electrons  471   d  to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0074]    A fifth exemplary power subsystem  470   e  can be coupled to a fifth exemplary distribution subsystem  472   e  that can be coupled to a fifth exemplary ring subsystem  475   e . The fifth power subsystem  470   e  can provide fifth DC signals to the fifth distribution subsystem  472   e  and the fifth ring subsystem  475   e . During operation, the fifth ring subsystem  475   e  can provide a fifth set of secondary electrons  471   e  to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0075]    A sixth exemplary power subsystem  470   f  can be coupled to a sixth exemplary distribution subsystem  472   f  that can be coupled to a sixth exemplary ring subsystem  475   f . The sixth power subsystem  470   f  can provide sixth DC signals to the sixth distribution subsystem  472   f  and the sixth ring subsystem  475   f . During operation, the sixth ring subsystem  475   f  can provide a sixth set of secondary electrons  471   f  to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0076]    A seventh exemplary power subsystem  470   g  can be coupled to a seventh exemplary distribution subsystem  472   g  that can be coupled to a seventh exemplary ring subsystem  475   g . The seventh power subsystem  470   g  can provide seventh DC signals to the seventh distribution subsystem  472   g  and the seventh ring subsystem  475   g . During operation, the seventh ring subsystem  475   g  can provide a seventh set of secondary electrons  471   g  to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0077]    An eighth exemplary power subsystem  470   h  can be coupled to an eighth exemplary distribution subsystem  472   h  that can be coupled to an eighth exemplary ring subsystem  475   h . The eighth power subsystem  470   h  can provide eighth DC signals to the eighth distribution subsystem  472   h  and the eighth ring subsystem  475   h . During operation, the eighth ring subsystem  475   h  can provide an eighth set of secondary electrons  471   h  to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0078]    In various embodiments, the plurality of power subsystems ( 470   a ,  470   b ,  470   c ,  470   d ,  470   e ,  470   f ,  470   g , and  470   h ) can provide DC signals that can include positive DC voltages, negative DC voltages, or pulsed DC voltages, or any combination thereof. For example, the DC signals can vary from about −5000 V to about +5000 V. Alternatively, one or more of the power subsystems ( 470   a ,  470   b ,  470   c ,  470   d ,  470   e ,  470   f ,  470   g , and  470   h ) may provide AC signals to the distribution subsystems ( 472   a ,  472   b ,  472   c ,  472   d ,  472   e ,  472   f ,  472   g , and  472   h ) and the ring subsystem ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). 
         [0079]    The fourth set of ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ) can have an inner diameter (d r1 ) and an outer diameter (d r2 ). The inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 100 mm to about 500 mm. The gap thicknesses (gt 1 ) between the inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the chamber walls ( FIG. 1, 112 ) and can vary from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. Alternatively, the fourth set of ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ) may be configured differently. 
         [0080]    In  FIG. 4B , a side view  400   b  shows a side view of the fourth set of ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ). Alternatively, the number of segments may be different. Each of the ring segments in the fourth set of ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ) can have thicknesses (t r1 ). The thickness (t r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 10 mm to about 50 mm. Alternatively, the segment thicknesses (t r1 ) may be different. Each of the fourth set of ring subsystems ( 475   a ,  475   b ,  475   c ,  475   d ,  475   e ,  475   f ,  475   g , and  475   h ) can have gap thicknesses (g r1 ) associated therewith. The gap thicknesses (g r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm. Alternatively, the gap thicknesses (g r1 ) may be different. 
         [0081]      FIGS. 5A-5B  illustrate simplified views of a fifth exemplary power subsystem, a fifth exemplary distribution subsystem, and a fifth exemplary ring subsystem in accordance with embodiments of the invention. 
         [0082]    In  FIG. 5A , the top view  500   a  shows a fifth exemplary power subsystem  570  coupled to a fifth exemplary distribution subsystem  572  that is coupled to a fifth exemplary ring subsystem  575 . As shown in  FIG. 5A , the fifth ring subsystem  575  can be configured as a segmented cylindrical ring structure and can include can include metallic components, semiconductor components, dielectric components, switching elements, measuring elements, protection elements, isolation elements, combining elements, and/or separating elements. The fifth ring subsystem  575  can be coupled to a fifth distribution subsystem  572 , and the fifth distribution subsystem  572  can be coupled to a fifth power subsystem  570 . During operation, the fifth ring subsystem ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ) can provide secondary electrons ( 571   a ,  571   b ,  571   c ,  571   d ,  571   e ,  571   f ,  571   g , and  571   h ) to the space inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure of the ring subsystem ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ). 
         [0083]    The fifth ring system  500  can include a plurality of isolation elements ( 577   a ,  577   b ,  577   c ,  577   d ,  577   e ,  577   f ,  577   g , and  577   h ) configured between the plurality of ring subsystem ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ). The fifth set of isolation elements ( 577   a ,  577   b ,  577   c ,  577   d ,  577   e ,  577   f ,  577   g , and  577   h ) can have thicknesses (it 1 ) and widths (iw 2 ). The thicknesses (it 1 ) and widths (iw 2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 0.01 mm to about 5 mm. For example, the fifth set of isolation elements ( 577   a ,  577   b ,  577   c ,  577   d ,  577   e ,  577   f ,  577   g , and  577   h ) can be coupled to ground. Alternatively, one or more of the fifth set of isolation elements ( 577   a ,  577   b ,  577   c ,  577   d ,  577   e ,  577   f ,  577   g , and  577   h ) may not be coupled to ground. During operation, some of the secondary electrons ( 571   a ,  571   b ,  571   c ,  571   d ,  571   e ,  571   f ,  571   g , and  571   h ) can return to ground using one or more of the fifth set of isolation elements ( 577   a ,  577   b ,  577   c ,  577   d ,  577   e ,  577   f ,  577   g , and  577   h )). 
         [0084]    In some embodiments, the fifth power subsystem  570  can provide DC signals to the fifth distribution subsystem  572  and the fifth ring subsystems ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ). For example, the DC signals can include positive DC voltages, negative DC voltages, or pulsed DC voltages, or any combination thereof, and the DC signals can vary from about −5000 V to about +5000 V. Alternatively, the fifth power subsystem  570  can provide AC signals to the fifth distribution subsystem  572  and the fifth ring subsystems ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ). 
         [0085]    The fifth ring subsystem ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ) can have an inner diameter (d r1 ) and an outer diameter (d r2 ). The inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 100 mm to about 500 mm. The gap thicknesses (gt 1 ) between the inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the chamber walls ( FIG. 1, 112 ) and can vary from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. Alternatively, the fifth ring subsystem ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ) may be configured differently. 
         [0086]    In  FIG. 5B , a side view  500   b  shows a side view of the fifth ring subsystems ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ). Alternatively, the number of segments may be different. Each of the ring segments ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ) can have thicknesses (t r1 ). The thickness (t r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 10 mm to about 50 mm. Alternatively, the segment thicknesses (t r1 ) may be different. Each of the ring segments ( 575   a ,  575   b ,  575   c ,  575   d ,  575   e ,  575   f ,  575   g , and  575   h ) can have a gap thickness (g r1 ) associated therewith. The gap thicknesses (g r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm. Alternatively, the gap thicknesses (g r1 ) may be different. 
         [0087]      FIGS. 6A-6B  illustrate simplified views of a sixth exemplary power system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. The sixth exemplary power system  600   a  includes a sixth exemplary power system  600   a , a third exemplary distribution subsystem, and a third exemplary ring subsystem 
         [0088]    In  FIG. 6A , the top view  600   a  shows a plurality of power subsystems ( 670   a ,  670   b ,  670   c ,  670   d ,  670   e ,  670   f ,  670   g , and  670   h ) coupled to a plurality of distribution subsystems ( 672   a ,  672   b ,  672   c ,  672   d ,  672   e ,  672   f ,  672   g , and  672   h ) that can be coupled to a pluarity of ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). For example, the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ) can be configured as a segmented cylindrical ring structure and can include can include metallic components, semiconductor components, dielectric components, switching elements, measuring elements, protection elements, isolation elements, combining elements, and/or separating elements. 
         [0089]    A first power subsystem  670   a  can be coupled to a first distribution subsystem  672   a  that can be coupled to a first ring subsystem  675   a . The first power subsystem  670   a  can provide first positive DC signals to the first distribution subsystem  672   a  and the first ring subsystem  675   a . During operation, the first ring subsystem  675   a  can provide secondary electrons  671   a  to the space  615  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0090]    A second exemplary power subsystem  670   b  can be coupled to a second exemplary distribution subsystem  672   b  that can be coupled to a second exemplary ring subsystem  675   b . The second power subsystem  670   b  can provide first negative DC signals to the second distribution subsystem  672   b  and the second ring subsystem  675   b . During operation, the second ring subsystem  675   b  can provide a second set of secondary electrons  671   b  to the space  615  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0091]    A third exemplary power subsystem  670   c  can be coupled to a third exemplary distribution subsystem  672   c  that can be coupled to a third exemplary ring subsystem  675   c . The third power subsystem  670   c  can provide second positive DC signals to the third distribution subsystem  672   c  and the third ring subsystem  675   c . During operation, the third ring subsystem  675   c  can provide a third set of secondary electrons  671   c  to the space  615  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0092]    A fourth exemplary power subsystem  670   d  can be coupled to a fourth exemplary distribution subsystem  672   d  that can be coupled to a fourth exemplary ring subsystem  675   d . The fourth power subsystem  670   d  can provide second negative DC signals to the fourth distribution subsystem  672   d  and the fourth ring subsystem  675   d . During operation, the fourth ring subsystem  675   d  can provide a fourth set of secondary electrons  671   d  to the space  615  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0093]    A fifth exemplary power subsystem  670   e  can be coupled to a fifth exemplary distribution subsystem  672   e  that can be coupled to a fifth exemplary ring subsystem  675   e . The fifth power subsystem  670   e  can provide third positive DC signals to the fifth distribution subsystem  672   e  and the fifth ring subsystem  675   e . During operation, the fifth ring subsystem  675   e  can provide a fifth set of secondary electrons  671   e  to the space  615  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0094]    A sixth exemplary power subsystem  670   f  can be coupled to a sixth exemplary distribution subsystem  672   f  that can be coupled to a sixth exemplary ring subsystem  675   f . The sixth power subsystem  670   f  can provide third negative DC signals to the sixth distribution subsystem  672   f  and the sixth ring subsystem  675   f . During operation, the sixth ring subsystem  675   f  can provide a sixth set of secondary electrons  671   f  to the space  615  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0095]    A seventh exemplary power subsystem  670   g  can be coupled to a seventh exemplary distribution subsystem  672   g  that can be coupled to a seventh exemplary ring subsystem  675   g . The seventh power subsystem  670   g  can provide fourth positive DC signals to the seventh distribution subsystem  672   g  and the seventh ring subsystem  675   g . During operation, the seventh ring subsystem  675   g  can provide a seventh set of secondary electrons  671   g  to the space  615  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0096]    An eighth exemplary power subsystem  670   h  can be coupled to an eighth exemplary distribution subsystem  672   h  that can be coupled to an eighth exemplary ring subsystem  675   h . The eighth power subsystem  670   h  can provide fourth negative DC signals to the eighth distribution subsystem  672   h  and the eighth ring subsystem  675   h . During operation, the eighth ring subsystem  675   h  can provide an eighth set of secondary electrons  671   h  to the space  615  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure comprising the ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0097]    In various embodiments, the plurality of power subsystems ( 670   a ,  670   b ,  670   c ,  670   d ,  670   e ,  670   f ,  670   g , and  670   h ) can provide DC signals that can include positive DC voltages, negative DC voltages, or pulsed DC voltages, or any combination thereof. For example, the DC signals can vary from about −5000 V to about +5000 V. Alternatively, one or more of the power subsystems ( 670   a ,  670   b ,  670   c ,  670   d ,  670   e ,  670   f ,  670   g , and  670   h ) may provide AC signals to the distribution subsystems ( 672   a ,  672   b ,  672   c ,  672   d ,  672   e ,  672   f ,  672   g , and  672   h ) and the ring subsystem ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). 
         [0098]    The fourth set of ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ) can have an inner diameter (d r1 ) and an outer diameter (d r2 ). The inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 100 mm to about 500 mm. The gap thicknesses (gt 1 ) between the inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the chamber walls ( FIG. 1, 112 ) and can vary from about 0.5 mm to about 5 mm. Alternatively, the fourth set of ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ) may be configured differently. 
         [0099]    In  FIG. 6B , a side view  600   b  shows a side view of the fourth set of ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ). Alternatively, the number of segments may be different. Each of the ring segments in the fourth set of ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ) can have thicknesses (t r1 ). The thickness (t r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 10 mm to about 50 mm. Alternatively, the segment thicknesses (t r1 ) may be different. Each of the fourth set of ring subsystems ( 675   a ,  675   b ,  675   c ,  675   d ,  675   e ,  675   f ,  675   g , and  675   h ) can have gap thicknesses (g r1 ) associated therewith. The gap thicknesses (g r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm. Alternatively, the gap thicknesses (g r1 ) may be different. 
         [0100]      FIGS. 7A-7B  illustrate simplified views of a seventh exemplary powered ring system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. 
         [0101]    In  FIG. 7A , the top view of the seventh exemplary powered ring system  700   a  shows a seventh exemplary power subsystem  770  coupled to a seventh exemplary distribution subsystem  772  that is coupled to a seventh set of exemplary ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ) having convex shapes. As shown in  FIG. 7A , the seventh set of exemplary ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ) can be configured as a segmented cylindrical ring structure and can include can include metallic components, semiconductor components, dielectric components, switching elements, measuring elements, protection elements, isolation elements, combining elements, and/or separating elements. The seventh set of exemplary ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ) can be coupled to a seventh distribution subsystem  772 , and the seventh distribution subsystem  772  can be coupled to a seventh power subsystem  770 . During operation, the seventh set of exemplary ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ) can provide secondary electrons ( 771   a ,  771   b ,  771   c ,  771   d ,  771   e ,  771   f ,  771   g , and  771   h ) to the space  715  inside the segmented cylindrical ring structure configured using the seventh set of exemplary ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ). 
         [0102]    In some embodiments, the seventh power subsystem  770  can provide DC signals to the seventh distribution subsystem  772  and the seventh set of ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ). For example, the DC signals can include positive DC voltages, negative DC voltages, or pulsed DC voltages, or any combination thereof, and the DC signals can vary from about −5000 V to about +5000 V. Alternatively, the seventh power subsystem  770  can provide AC signals to the seventh distribution subsystem  772  and the seventh set of ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ). 
         [0103]    The seventh set of ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ) can have an inner diameter (d r1 ) and an outer diameter (d r2 ). The inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 100 mm to about 500 mm. The difference between the inner diameter (d r1 ) and the outer diameter (d r2 ) can be dependent upon the size of the chamber walls ( FIG. 1, 112 ) and can vary from about 5 mm to about 50 mm. Alternatively, the seventh set of ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ) may be configured differently. 
         [0104]    In  FIG. 7B , a side view  700   b  shows a side view of the seventh set of ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ). Alternatively, the number of segments may be different. Each of the seventh set of ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ) can have segment thicknesses (t r1 ). The segment thicknesses (t r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 10 mm to about 50 mm. Alternatively, the segment thicknesses (t r1 ) may be different. Each of the seventh set of ring subsystems ( 775   a ,  775   b ,  775   c ,  775   d ,  775   e ,  775   f ,  775   g , and  775   h ) can have a gap thickness (g r1 ) associated therewith. The gap thicknesses (g r1 ) can be dependent upon the size of the process chamber ( FIG. 1, 110 ) and can vary from about 0.1 mm to about 5 mm. Alternatively, the gap thicknesses (g r1 ) may be different. 
         [0105]      FIG. 8A  illustrates a bottom view of an EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments of the invention, and  FIG. 8B  illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the EM wave launcher depicted in  FIG. 8A .  FIG. 8A  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary EM wave launcher  832 , and a plurality of slots ( 848  and  849 ) in the slotted antenna  846  are illustrated as if one can see through resonator plate  850  to the slotted antenna  846 . As shown in  FIG. 8A , the plurality of slots ( 848  and  849 ) can be arranged in pairs, and each of the pair of slots comprises a first slot oriented orthogonal to a second slot. However, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 848  and  849 ) can be arbitrary. For example, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 848  and  849 ) can be according to a pre-determined pattern for plasma uniformity and/or plasma stability. 
         [0106]    On a planar surface  861  of resonator plate  850 , first recesses  855  and second recesses  865  may be formed. In some embodiments, the first recesses  855  can be either aligned or partly aligned with the first slots  848  in the slotted antenna  846  or not aligned with the first slots  848  in the slotted antenna  846 . For example, one or more of the first recesses  855  can be either aligned or partly aligned with a first slot  848  in the slotted antenna  846 . In addition, one or more of the second recesses  865  can be aligned with one or more of second slots  849  in the slotted antenna  846 . 
         [0107]    In some embodiments, when one or more of the first recesses  855  are not aligned with one or more of the first slots  848 , the second recesses  865  can be used to control the plasma generation and plasma stability. For example, when optical monitoring is used, uniform plasma can be measured across a range of powers coupled to the EM wave launcher  832  and a range of pressures in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ), and uniform plasma can be formed adjacent the plasma-facing surface  860 . Further, the optical monitoring has shown that the variability of the first recesses  855  can contribute to plasma generation, plasma uniformity, and plasma stability for a wide range of the DC voltages, microwave power, and/or chamber pressure. 
         [0108]    In other embodiments, when one or more of the second recesses  865  are aligned with one or more of second slots  849  in the slotted antenna  846 , stable plasma can be established at low power levels. Plasma can be formed via ionization proximate these (larger) dimples, and flows from the second recesses  865  to the first recesses  855  (i.e., not aligned/partly aligned with the first slots  848 ). As a result, the plasma formed proximate these second recesses  865  is stable over a wide range of power and pressure, as the first recesses  855  can receive an “overflow” of plasma from the second recesses  865  and compensate for fluctuations in the plasma generation proximate the second recesses  865 . 
         [0109]    For improved control of plasma uniformity, the inventors believe that the regions adjacent the planar surface  861  should be controlled so that the risk for development of a mode-pattern is reduced. Therefore, as illustrated in  FIG. 8A  and  FIG. 8B , the optimal placement of the first recesses  855  and the second recesses  865  may be such that a relatively large number of first recesses  855  are not aligned with the plurality of first slots  848  in slotted antenna  846 , and a relatively large number of the second recesses  865  are aligned with the plurality of second slots  849 . Although, the arrangement of recesses ( 855  and  865 ) may be chosen to achieve plasma uniformity, it may also be desirable to achieve non-uniform plasma that cooperates with the DC subsystem ( 170 ,  FIG. 1 ) and/or other process parameters to achieve a uniform process at a surface of a substrate ( 105 ,  FIG. 1 ) being processed by the plasma in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0110]    Referring still to  FIG. 8A  and  FIG. 8B , an exemplary EM wave launcher  832  is illustrated that can include a resonator plate  850  with plasma-facing surface  860 . The EM wave launcher  832  further comprises a slotted antenna  846  having a plurality of first slots  848  and a plurality of second slots  849 . The first slots  848  and the second slots  849  permit the coupling of EM energy from a first region above the slotted antenna  846  to a second region below the slotted antenna wherein the resonator plate  850  is located. 
         [0111]    The number, geometry, size, and distribution of the first slots  848  and second slots  849  can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasma formed in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the design of the slotted antenna  846  may be used to control the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasmas in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0112]    In various embodiments, the first recesses  855  can comprise a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  860 . For example, a first recess  855  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The first recess  855  can be characterized by a first depth  856  and a first diameter  857 . 
         [0113]    In addition, each of the second recesses  865  can include a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  860 . For example, a second recess  865  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The second recess  865  can be characterized by a second depth  866  and a second diameter  867 . The dimensions of the first recesses  855  may or may not be the same as the dimensions of the second recesses  865 . For instance, the first recesses  855  can be smaller than the second recesses  865 . 
         [0114]    Still referring to  FIG. 8A  and  FIG. 8B , the resonator plate  850  can comprise a dielectric plate having a plate thickness  851  and a plate diameter  852 . For example, the plasma-facing surface  860  on resonator plate  850  can comprise a planar surface  861  within which the first recesses  855  and the second recesses  865  can be formed. Alternatively, the resonator plate  850  may comprise an arbitrary geometry that can include concave, and/or convex surfaces. 
         [0115]    The propagation of EM energy in the resonator plate  850  may be characterized by an effective wavelength (λ) for a given frequency of EM energy and dielectric constant for the resonator plate  850 . The plate thickness  851  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the plate thickness  851  may be about a half wavelength thick (λ/2) or greater than about half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). Alternatively, the plate thickness  851  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 45 mm. 
         [0116]    As an example, the first recesses  855  can be configured as cylindrical recesses, with first depths  856  and first diameters  857 , and the first recesses can be located near an inner region of the plasma-facing surface  860 . 
         [0117]    The first diameter  867  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (n λ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a first difference  853  between the plate thickness  851  and the first depth  856  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the first diameter  857  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a first difference  853  between the plate thickness  851  and the first depth  856  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). The plate thickness  851  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or greater than half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). 
         [0118]    Alternatively, the first diameter  857  may range from about 25 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference  853  between the plate thickness  851  and the first depth  856  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the first diameter may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0119]    In the first recesses  855 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) can be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  860 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0120]    In addition, the second recesses  865  can also be configured as cylindrical recesses with a second depth  866  and a second diameter  867 , and the second recesses can be located near an outer region of the plasma-facing surface  860 . 
         [0121]    The second diameter  867  can be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a second difference  863  between the plate thickness  851  and the second depth  866  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the second diameter  867  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a second difference  863  between the plate thickness  851  and the second depth  866  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). 
         [0122]    Alternatively, the second diameter  867  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 35 mm, and the second difference  863  between the plate thickness  851  and the second depth  866  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the second diameter may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the second difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0123]    In the second recesses  865 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) may be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  860 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0124]      FIG. 9A  illustrates a bottom view of an EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments of the invention, and  FIG. 9B  illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the EM wave launcher depicted in  FIG. 9A .  FIG. 9A  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary EM wave launcher  932 , and a plurality of slots ( 948  and  949 ) in the slotted antenna  946  are illustrated as if one can see through resonator plate  950  to the slotted antenna  946 . As shown in  FIG. 9A , the plurality of slots ( 948  and  949 ) can be arranged in pairs, and each of the pair of slots comprises a first slot oriented orthogonal to a second slot. However, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 948  and  949 ) can be arbitrary. For example, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 948  and  949 ) can be according to a pre-determined pattern for plasma uniformity and/or plasma stability. 
         [0125]    In some embodiments, a plurality of first recesses  955  can be configured in the resonator plate  950  and one or more of the first recesses  955  are not aligned with one or more of the first slots  948  in the slotted antenna  946 . Alternatively, one or more of the first recesses  955  may not be aligned with the first slots  948  in the slotted antenna  946 . In addition, a shelf recess  965  can be configured in the resonator plate  950 , and the shelf recess  965  can comprise an arbitrary geometry including, for example, a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The shelf recess  965  can include a shelf depth  966  and a shelf width  967 . 
         [0126]    Referring still to  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B , an exemplary EM wave launcher  932  is illustrated that can include a resonator plate  950  with plasma-facing surface  960 . The EM wave launcher  932  further comprises a slotted antenna  946  having a plurality of first slots  948  and a plurality of second slots  949 . The first slots  948  and the second slots  949  permit the coupling of EM energy from a first region above the slotted antenna  946  to a second region below the slotted antenna wherein the resonator plate  950  is located. 
         [0127]    The number, geometry, size, and distribution of the first slots  948  and second slots  949  can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasma formed in process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the design of the slotted antenna  946  can be used to control the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasmas in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0128]    In various embodiments, the first recesses  955  can comprise a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  960 . For example, a first recess  955  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The first recess  955  can be characterized by a first depth  956  and a first diameter  957 . 
         [0129]    In addition, the shelf recess  965  can include a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  960 . For example, a shelf recess  965  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. 
         [0130]    Still referring to  FIG. 9A  and  FIG. 9B , the resonator plate  950  comprises a dielectric plate having a plate thickness  951  and a plate diameter  952 . For example, the plasma-facing surface  960  on resonator plate  950  can comprise a planar surface  961  within which the first recesses  955  and the shelf recess  965  can be formed. Alternatively, the resonator plate  950  may comprise an arbitrary geometry that can include concave, and/or convex surfaces. 
         [0131]    The propagation of EM energy in the resonator plate  950  may be characterized by an effective wavelength (λ) for a given frequency of EM energy and dielectric constant for the resonator plate  950 . The plate thickness  951  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the plate thickness  951  may be about a half wavelength thick (λ/2) or greater than about half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). Alternatively, the plate thickness  951  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 45 mm. 
         [0132]    As an example, the first recesses  955  can be configured as cylindrical recesses, with first depths  956  and first diameters  957 , and the first recesses can be located near an inner region of the plasma-facing surface  960 . 
         [0133]    The first diameter  957  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a first difference  953  between the plate thickness  951  and the first depth  956  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the first diameter  957  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a first difference  953  between the plate thickness  951  and the first depth  956  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). The plate thickness  951  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or greater than half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). 
         [0134]    Alternatively, the first diameter  957  may range from about 25 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference  953  between the plate thickness  951  and the first depth  956  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the first diameter may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0135]    In the first recesses  955 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) can be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  960 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0136]    In addition, the shelf recess  965  can be configured as cylindrical ring with a shelf depth  966  and a shelf width  967 , and the shelf recess can be located near an outer region of the plasma-facing surface  960 . 
         [0137]    The shelf width  967  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a second difference  963  between the plate thickness  951  and the shelf depth  966  may be an number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the shelf width  967  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a second difference  963  between the plate thickness  951  and the shelf depth  966  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). 
         [0138]    Alternatively, the shelf width  967  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 35 mm, and the second difference  963  between the plate thickness  951  and the shelf depth  966  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the shelf width may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the second difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0139]    In the shelf recess  965 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) may be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  960 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0140]      FIG. 10A  illustrates a bottom view of an EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments of the invention, and  FIG. 10B  illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the EM wave launcher depicted in  FIG. 10A .  FIG. 10A  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary EM wave launcher  1032 , and a plurality of slots ( 1048  and  1049 ) in the slotted antenna  1046  are illustrated as if one can see through resonator plate  1050  to the slotted antenna  1046 . As shown in  FIG. 10A , the plurality of slots ( 1048  and  1049 ) can be arranged in pairs, and each of the pair of slots comprises a first slot oriented orthogonal to a second slot. However, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1048  and  1049 ) can be arbitrary. For example, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1048  and  1049 ) can be according to a pre-determined pattern for plasma uniformity and/or plasma stability. 
         [0141]    In some embodiments, a plurality of first recesses  1055  can be configured in the resonator plate  1050  and one or more of the first recesses  1055  can be substantially aligned with the first slots  1048  in the slotted antenna  1046 . Alternatively, one or more of the first recesses  1055  may not be aligned with one or more of the first slots  1048  in the slotted antenna  1046 . In addition, a shelf recess  1065  can be configured in the resonator plate  1050 , and the shelf recess  1065  can comprise an arbitrary geometry including, for example, a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The shelf recess  1065  can include a shelf depth  1066  and a shelf width  1067 . For example, the shelf recess  1065  can be substantially aligned with the plurality of second  1049 . Alternatively, the shelf recess  1065  may be aligned, partly aligned, or not aligned with the plurality of second slots  1049 . 
         [0142]    Referring still to  FIG. 10A  and  FIG. 10B , an exemplary EM wave launcher  1032  is illustrated that can include a resonator plate  1050  with plasma-facing surface  1060 . The EM wave launcher  1032  further comprises a slotted antenna  1046  having a plurality of first slots  1048  and a plurality of second slots  1049 . The first slots  1048  and the second slots  1049  permit the coupling of EM energy from a first region above the slotted antenna  1046  to a second region below the slotted antenna wherein the resonator plate  1050  is located. 
         [0143]    The number, geometry, size, and distribution of the first slots  1048  and second slots  1049  can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasma formed in process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the design of the slotted antenna  1046  may be used to control the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasmas in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0144]    In various embodiments, the first recesses  1055  can comprise a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  1060 . For example, a first recess  1055  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The first recess  1055  can be characterized by a first depth  1056  and a first diameter  1057 . 
         [0145]    In addition, the shelf recess  1065  can include a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  1060 . For example, a shelf recess  1065  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. 
         [0146]    Still referring to  FIG. 10A  and  FIG. 10B , the resonator plate  1050  comprises a dielectric plate having a plate thickness  1051  and a plate diameter  1052 . For example, the plasma-facing surface  1060  on resonator plate  1050  can comprise a planar surface  1061  within which the first recesses  1055  and the shelf recess  1065  can be formed. Alternatively, the resonator plate  1050  may comprise an arbitrary geometry that can include concave, and/or convex surfaces. 
         [0147]    The propagation of EM energy in the resonator plate  1050  may be characterized by an effective wavelength (λ) for a given frequency of EM energy and dielectric constant for the resonator plate  1050 . The plate thickness  1051  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the plate thickness  1051  may be about a half wavelength thick (λ/2) or greater than about half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). Alternatively, the plate thickness  1051  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 45 mm. 
         [0148]    As an example, the first recesses  1055  can be configured as cylindrical recesses, with first depths  1056  and first diameters  1057 , and the first recesses can be located near an inner region of the plasma-facing surface  1060 . 
         [0149]    The first diameter  1057  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a first difference  1053  between the plate thickness  1051  and the first depth  1056  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the first diameter  1057  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a first difference  1053  between the plate thickness  1051  and the first depth  1056  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). The plate thickness  1051  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or greater than half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). 
         [0150]    Alternatively, the first diameter  1057  may range from about 25 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference  1053  between the plate thickness  1051  and the first depth  1056  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the first diameter may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0151]    In the first recesses  1055 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) can be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  360 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0152]    In addition, the shelf recess  1065  can be configured as cylindrical ring with a shelf depth  1066  and a shelf width  1067 , and the shelf recess can be located near an outer region of the plasma-facing surface  1060 . 
         [0153]    The shelf width  1067  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a second difference  1063  between the plate thickness  1051  and the shelf depth  1066  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4, where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the shelf width  1067  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a second difference  1063  between the plate thickness  1051  and the shelf depth  1066  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). 
         [0154]    Alternatively, the shelf width  1067  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 35 mm, and the second difference  1063  between the plate thickness  1051  and the shelf depth  1066  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the shelf width may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the second difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0155]    In the shelf recess  1065 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) may be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  1060 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0156]      FIG. 11A  illustrates a bottom view of an EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments of the invention, and  FIG. 11B  illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the EM wave launcher depicted in  FIG. 11A .  FIG. 11A  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary EM wave launcher  1132 , and a plurality of slots ( 1148  and  1149 ) in the slotted antenna  1146  are illustrated as if one can see through resonator plate  1150  to the slotted antenna  1146 . As shown in  FIG. 11A , the plurality of slots ( 1148  and  1149 ) can be arranged in pairs, and each of the pair of slots comprises a first slot oriented orthogonal to a second slot. However, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1148  and  1149 ) can be arbitrary. For example, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1148  and  1149 ) can be according to a pre-determined pattern for plasma uniformity and/or plasma stability. 
         [0157]    In some embodiments, a plurality of first recesses  1155  can be configured in the resonator plate  1150  and one or more of the first recesses  1155  can be substantially non-aligned with the first slots  1148  in the slotted antenna  1146 . Alternatively, one or more of the first recesses  1155  may be aligned or partially aligned with one or more of the first slots  1148  in the slotted antenna  1146 . In addition, a slot recess  1165  can be configured in the resonator plate  1150 , and the slot recess  1165  can comprise an arbitrary geometry including, for example, a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The slot recess  1165  can include a slot depth  1166  and a slot width  1167 . For example, the slot recess  1165  can be substantially aligned with the plurality of second slots  1149 . Alternatively, the slot recess  1165  may be either aligned, partly aligned, or not aligned with the plurality of second slots  1149 . Furthermore, a plurality of second recesses  1175  can be configured in the slot recess  1165 , and the second recesses  1175  can comprise an arbitrary geometry including, for example, a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The second recesses  1175  can include a second depths  1176  and second widths  1177 . For example, the second recesses  1175  can be substantially aligned with the plurality of second slots  1149 . Alternatively, the second recesses  1175  may be either aligned, partly aligned, or not aligned with the plurality of second slots  1149 . 
         [0158]    Referring still to  FIG. 11A  and  FIG. 11B , an exemplary EM wave launcher  1132  is illustrated that can include a resonator plate  1150  with plasma-facing surface  1160 . The EM wave launcher  1132  further comprises a slotted antenna  1146  having a plurality of first slots  1148  and a plurality of second slots  1149 . The first slots  1148  and the second slots  1149  permit the coupling of EM energy from a first region above the slotted antenna  1146  to a second region below the slotted antenna wherein the resonator plate  1150  is located. 
         [0159]    The number, geometry, size, and distribution of the first slots  1148  and second slots  1149  can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasma formed in process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the design of the slotted antenna  1146  may be used to control the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasmas in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0160]    In various embodiments, the first recesses  1155  and the second recesses  1175  can comprise a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  1160 . For example, a first recess  1155  or a second recess  1175  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The first recess  1155  can be characterized by a first depth  1156  and a first diameter  1157 . The second recess  1175  can be characterized by a second depth  1176  and a second diameter  1177 . 
         [0161]    In addition, the slot recess  1165  can include a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  1160 . For example, a slot recess  1165  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. 
         [0162]    Still referring to  FIG. 11A  and  FIG. 11B , the resonator plate  1150  comprises a dielectric plate having a plate thickness  1151  and a plate diameter  1152 . For example, the plasma-facing surface  1160  on resonator plate  1150  can comprise a planar surface  1161  within which the first recesses  1155  and the slot recess  1165  can be formed. Alternatively, the resonator plate  1150  may comprise an arbitrary geometry that can include concave, and/or convex surfaces. 
         [0163]    The propagation of EM energy in the resonator plate  1150  may be characterized by an effective wavelength (λ) for a given frequency of EM energy and dielectric constant for the resonator plate  1150 . The plate thickness  1151  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the plate thickness  1151  may be about a half wavelength thick (λ/2) or greater than about half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). Alternatively, the plate thickness  1151  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 45 mm. 
         [0164]    As an example, the first recesses  1155  can be configured as cylindrical recesses, with first depths  1156  and first diameters  1157 , and the first recesses can be located near an inner region of the plasma-facing surface  1160 . In addition, the second recesses  1175  can be configured as cylindrical recesses, with second depths  1176  and second diameters  1177 , and the second recesses  1175  can be located near an outer region of the plasma-facing surface  1160 . 
         [0165]    The first diameter  1157  and the second diameter  1177  can be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a first difference  1153  between the plate thickness  1151  and the first depth  1156  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the first diameter  1157  and the second diameter  1177  can be about one half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a first difference  1153  between the plate thickness  1151  and the first depth  1156  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). The plate thickness  1151  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or greater than half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). 
         [0166]    Alternatively, the first diameter  1157  may range from about 25 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference  1153  between the plate thickness  1151  and the first depth  1156  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the first diameter may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0167]    In the first recesses  1155  and the second recesses  1175 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) can be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  360 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0168]    In addition, the slot recess  1165  can be configured as cylindrical ring with a slot depth  1166  and a slot width  1167 , and the slot recess can be located near an outer region of the plasma-facing surface  1160 . 
         [0169]    The slot width  1167  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a second difference  1163  between the plate thickness  1151  and the slot depth  1166  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the slot width  1167  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a second difference  1163  between the plate thickness  1151  and the slot depth  1166  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). 
         [0170]    Alternatively, the slot width  1167  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 35 mm, and the second difference  1163  between the plate thickness  1151  and the slot depth  1166  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the slot width may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the second difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0171]    In the slot recess  1165 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) may be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  1160 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0172]      FIG. 12A  illustrates a bottom view of an EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments of the invention, and  FIG. 12B  illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the EM wave launcher depicted in  FIG. 12A .  FIG. 12A  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary EM wave launcher  1232 , and a plurality of slots ( 1248  and  1249 ) in the slotted antenna  1246  are illustrated as if one can see through resonator plate  1250  to the slotted antenna  1246 . As shown in  FIG. 12A , the plurality of slots ( 1248  and  1249 ) can be arranged in pairs, and each of the pair of slots comprises a first slot oriented orthogonal to a second slot. However, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1248  and  1249 ) can be arbitrary. For example, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1248  and  1249 ) can be according to a pre-determined pattern for plasma uniformity and/or plasma stability. 
         [0173]    In some embodiments, a plurality of first recesses  1255  can be configured in the resonator plate  1250  and one or more of the first recesses  1255  can be substantially non-aligned with the first slots  1248  in the slotted antenna  1246 . Alternatively, one or more of the first recesses  1255  may be aligned or partially aligned with one or more of the first slots  1248  in the slotted antenna  1246 . In addition, a channel recess  1265  can be configured in the resonator plate  1250 , and the channel recess  1265  can comprise an arbitrary geometry including, for example, a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The channel recess  1265  can include a channel depth  1266  and a channel width  1267 . For example, the channel recess  1265  can be substantially aligned with the plurality of second slots  1249 . Alternatively, the channel recess  1265  may be either aligned, partly aligned, or not aligned with the plurality of second slots  1249 . 
         [0174]    In some embodiments, opening  1290  can include an opening depth  1291  and an opening width  1292 , and the gas passage  1295  can include a passage length  1296  and a passage width  1297 . For example, the opening  1290  and the gas passage  1295  can be substantially aligned with the center of the resonator plate  1250 . Alternatively, the opening  1290  and the gas passage  1295  may be aligned differently. 
         [0175]    Referring still to  FIG. 12A  and  FIG. 12B , an exemplary EM wave launcher  1232  is illustrated that can include a resonator plate  1250  with plasma-facing surface  1260 . The EM wave launcher  1232  further comprises a slotted antenna  1246  having a plurality of first slots  1248  and a plurality of second slots  1249 . The first slots  1248  and the second slots  1249  permit the coupling of EM energy from a first region above the slotted antenna  1246  to a second region below the slotted antenna wherein the resonator plate  1250  is located. 
         [0176]    The number, geometry, size, and distribution of the first slots  1248  and second slots  1249  can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasma formed in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). Thus, the design of the slotted antenna  1246  may be used to control the spatial uniformity and stability of the DC/SWP plasmas in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0177]    In various embodiments, the first recesses  1255  and the second recesses  1265  can comprise a unique indentation or dimple formed within the plasma-facing surface  1260 . For example, a first recess  1255  can comprise a cylindrical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The first recess  1255  can be characterized by a first depth  1256  and a first diameter  1257 . 
         [0178]    In addition, the second recess  1265  can comprise a channel having a trapezoidal or frusto-triangular cross-section. However, the channel in the second recess  1265  may comprise an arbitrary geometry including, for example, a cylindrical geometry, a conical geometry, a frusto-conical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, a pyramidal geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The second recess  1265  may comprise a channel depth  1266 , a first channel width  1266 , and a second channel width  1268 . 
         [0179]    Still referring to  FIG. 12A  and  FIG. 12B , the resonator plate  1250  comprises a dielectric plate having a plate thickness  1251  and a plate diameter  1252 . For example, the plasma-facing surface  1260  on resonator plate  1250  can comprise a planar surface  1261  within which the first recesses  1255  and the channel recess  1265  can be formed. Alternatively, the resonator plate  1250  may comprise an arbitrary geometry that can include concave, and/or convex surfaces. 
         [0180]    The propagation of EM energy in the resonator plate  1250  may be characterized by an effective wavelength (λ) for a given frequency of EM energy and dielectric constant for the resonator plate  1250 . The plate thickness  1251  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the plate thickness  1251  may be about a half wavelength thick (λ/2) or greater than about half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). Alternatively, the plate thickness  1251  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 45 mm. 
         [0181]    As an example, the first recesses  1255  can be located near an inner region of the plasma-facing surface  1260 . In addition, the channel recesses  1265  can be located near an outer region of the plasma-facing surface  1260 . 
         [0182]    The first diameter  1257 , the first channel width  1267 , the second channel width  1268 , the opening width  1292 , and the passage width  1297  can be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a first difference  1253  between the plate thickness  1251  and the first depth  1256  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2, where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the first diameter  1257 , the first channel width  1267 , the second channel width  1268 , and the opening width  1292 , and the passage width  1297  can be about one half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a first difference  1253  between the plate thickness  1251  and the first depth  1256  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). The plate thickness  1251  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or greater than half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). 
         [0183]    Alternatively, the first diameter  1257 , the first channel width  1267 , the second channel width  1268 , the opening width  1292 , and the passage width  1297  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference  1253  between the plate thickness  1251  and the depths ( 1256 ,  1266 ,  1291 , and  1296 ) may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. 
         [0184]    In the first recesses  1255 , the channels recesses  1265 , the openings  1290 , and/or the gas passages  1295 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) can be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  1260 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0185]    In addition, as shown in  FIG. 12 , the EM wave launcher  1232  can be fabricated with a mating element  1262  having a first mating length  1262   a  and a first mating width. The mating element  1262  may comprise an edge wall extension located at or near a periphery of the resonator plate  1250  and can be configured to couple with the process chamber wall. 
         [0186]    Furthermore, the EM wave launcher may comprise an opening  1290  and a gas passage  1295 . The opening  1290  may be configured to receive fastening devices for securing a gas line through the inner portion of the antenna  1246  to the gas passage  1295  in resonator plate  1250 . 
         [0187]    Although only one gas passage is shown, additional gas passages may be fabricated in the resonator plate  1250 . Moreover, although the shape of the gas passage is straight having a cylindrical cross-section, it may be arbitrary, e.g., helical having an arbitrary cross-section. Any one or more of these features described in  FIG. 12  may be implemented in any one of the embodiments described in  FIGS. 8 through 11 . 
         [0188]    The channel widths ( 1267  and  1268 ) can be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a second difference  1263  between the plate thickness  1251  and the channel depth  1266  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the channel widths ( 1267  and  1268 ) may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a second difference  1263  between the plate thickness  1251  and the channel depth  1266  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). 
         [0189]    Alternatively, the channel widths ( 1267  and  1268 ) may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 35 mm, and the second difference  1263  between the plate thickness  1251  and the channel depth  1266  may range from about 10 mm to about 35 mm. Alternatively yet, the channel widths ( 1267  and  1268 ) may range from about 30 mm to about 35 mm, and the second difference may range from about 10 mm to about 20 mm. 
         [0190]    In the channel recess  1265 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) may be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  1260 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0191]      FIG. 13A  illustrates a bottom view of an EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments of the invention, and  FIG. 13B  illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the EM wave launcher depicted in  FIG. 13A .  FIG. 13A  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary EM wave launcher  1332 , and a plurality of slots ( 1348  and  1349 ) in the slotted antenna  1346  are illustrated as if one can see through resonator plate  1350  to the slotted antenna  1346 . As shown in  FIG. 13A , the plurality of slots ( 1348  and  1349 ) can be arranged in pairs, and each of the pair of slots comprises a first slot oriented orthogonal to a second slot. However, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1348  and  1349 ) can be arbitrary. For example, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1348  and  1349 ) can be according to a pre-determined pattern for plasma uniformity and/or plasma stability. 
         [0192]    In some embodiments, a first recess  1355  can be configured in the resonator plate  1350 , and the outer edge of the first recess  1355  can be substantially aligned with the second slots  1349  in the slotted antenna  1346 . Alternatively, the first recess  1355  may be smaller and may be aligned or partially aligned with one or more of the first slots  1348  in the slotted antenna  1346 . In addition, the first recess  1355  can have a trapezoidal or frusto-triangular cross-section. However, the first recess  1355  may comprise an arbitrary geometry including, for example, a cylindrical geometry, a conical geometry, a frusto-conical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, a pyramidal geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The first recess  1355  may comprise a recess depth  1356 , a first recess width  1357 , and a second recess width  1358 . 
         [0193]    In addition, as shown in  FIG. 13B , the EM wave launcher  1332  can be fabricated with a mating element  1362  having a first mating length  1062   a  and a first mating width. The mating element  1362  may comprise an edge wall extension located at or near a periphery of the resonator plate  1350  and can be configured to couple with the process chamber wall. Furthermore, the EM wave launcher may comprise an opening  1390  and a gas passage  1395 . The opening  1390  may be configured to receive fastening devices for securing a gas line through the inner portion of the antenna  1346  to the gas passage  1395  in resonator plate  1350 . 
         [0194]    Although only one gas passage is shown, additional gas passages may be fabricated in the resonator plate  1350 . Moreover, although the shape of the gas passage is straight having a cylindrical cross-section, it may be arbitrary, e.g., helical having an arbitrary cross-section. Any one or more of these features described in  FIGS. 13A and 13B  may be implemented in any one of the embodiments described in  FIGS. 8 through 12 . 
         [0195]    In some embodiments, opening  1390  can include an opening depth  1391  and an opening width  1392 , and the gas passage  1395  can include a passage length  1396  and passage width  1397 . For example, the opening  1390  and the gas passage  1395  can be substantially aligned with the center of the resonator plate  1350 . Alternatively, the opening  1390  and the gas passage  1395  may be aligned differently. 
         [0196]    Referring still to  FIG. 13A  and  FIG. 13B , an exemplary EM wave launcher  1332  is illustrated that can include a resonator plate  1350  with plasma-facing surface  1360 . The EM wave launcher  1332  further comprises a slotted antenna  1346  having a plurality of first slots  1348  and a plurality of second slots  1349 . The first slots  1348  and the second slots  1349  permit the coupling of EM energy from a first region above the slotted antenna  1346  to a second region below the slotted antenna wherein the resonator plate  1350  is located. 
         [0197]    The number, geometry, size, and distribution of the first slots  1348  and second slots  1349  can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasma formed in process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the design of the slotted antenna  1346  may be used to control the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasmas in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0198]    Still referring to  FIG. 13A  and  FIG. 13B , the resonator plate  1350  comprises a dielectric plate having a plate thickness  1351  and a plate diameter  1352 . For example, the plasma-facing surface  1360  on resonator plate  1350  can comprise a planar surface  1361  within which the first recess  1355  can be formed. Alternatively, the resonator plate  1350  may comprise an arbitrary geometry that can include concave, and/or convex surfaces. 
         [0199]    The propagation of EM energy in the resonator plate  1350  may be characterized by an effective wavelength (λ) for a given frequency of EM energy and dielectric constant for the resonator plate  1350 . The plate thickness  1351  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the plate thickness  1351  may be about a half wavelength thick (λ/2) or greater than about half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). Alternatively, the plate thickness  1351  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 45 mm. 
         [0200]    The first recess width  1357 , the second recess width  1368 , the opening width  1392 , and the gas passage width  1397  can be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a first difference  1353  between the plate thickness  1351  and the first depth  1356  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the first recess width  1357 , the second recess width  1368 , the opening width  1392 , and the gas passage width  1397  can be about one half the effective wavelength (λ/2), and a first difference  1353  between the plate thickness  1351  and the first depth  1356  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or about quarter the effective wavelength (λ/4). The plate thickness  1351  may be about half the effective wavelength (λ/2) or greater than half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). 
         [0201]    Alternatively, the first recess width  1357 , the second recess width  1368 , the opening width  1392 , and the gas passage width  1397  may range from about 2 mm to about 35 mm, and the first difference  1353  between the plate thickness  1351  and the depths ( 1356 ,  1366 , and  1396 ) may range from about 2 mm to about 35 mm. 
         [0202]    In the first recess  1355 , the opening  1390 , and/or the gas passage  1395 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) can be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  1360 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0203]      FIG. 14A  illustrates a bottom view of an EM wave launcher in accordance with embodiments of the invention, and  FIG. 14B  illustrates a schematic cross-sectional view of a portion of the EM wave launcher depicted in  FIG. 14A .  FIG. 14A  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary EM wave launcher  1432 , and a plurality of slots ( 1448  and  1449 ) in the slotted antenna  1446  are illustrated as if one can see through resonator plate  1450  to the slotted antenna  1446 . As shown in  FIG. 14A , the plurality of slots ( 1448  and  1449 ) can be arranged in pairs, and each of the pair of slots comprises a first slot oriented orthogonal to a second slot. However, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1448  and  1449 ) can be arbitrary. For example, the orientation of slots in the plurality of slots ( 1448  and  1449 ) can be according to a pre-determined pattern for plasma uniformity and/or plasma stability. 
         [0204]    In some embodiments, a channel recess  1455  can be configured in the resonator plate  1450 , and the channel recess  1455  can be substantially aligned with the second slots  1449  in the slotted antenna  1446 . Alternatively, the channel recess  1455  may be smaller and may be aligned or partially aligned with one or more of the first slots  1448  in the slotted antenna  1446 . In addition, the channel recess  1455  can comprise an arbitrary geometry including, for example, a cylindrical geometry, a conical geometry, a frusto-conical geometry, a spherical geometry, an aspherical geometry, a rectangular geometry, a pyramidal geometry, or any arbitrary shape. The channel recess  1455  may comprise a channel depth  1456 , a first channel width  1457 , and a second channel width  1458 . 
         [0205]    In addition, as shown in  FIG. 14B , the EM wave launcher  1432  can be fabricated with an opening  1490  and a gas passage  1495 . The opening  1490  may be configured to receive fastening devices for securing a gas line through the inner portion of the antenna  1446  to the gas passage  1495  in resonator plate  1450 . 
         [0206]    Although only one gas passage is shown, additional gas passages may be fabricated in the resonator plate  1450 . Moreover, although the shape of the gas passage is straight having a cylindrical cross-section, it may be arbitrary, e.g., helical having an arbitrary cross-section. Any one or more of these features described in  FIGS. 14A and 14B  may be implemented in any one of the embodiments described in  FIGS. 3 through 9 . 
         [0207]    In some embodiments, opening  1490  can include an opening depth  1491  and an opening width  1492 , and the gas passage  1495  can include a passage length  1496  and passage width  1497 . For example, the opening  1490  and the gas passage  1495  can be substantially aligned with the center of the resonator plate  1450 . Alternatively, the opening  1490  and the gas passage  1495  may be aligned differently. 
         [0208]    Referring still to  FIG. 14A  and  FIG. 14B , an exemplary EM wave launcher  1432  is illustrated that can include a resonator plate  1450  with plasma-facing surface  1460 . The EM wave launcher  1432  further comprises a slotted antenna  1446  having a plurality of first slots  1448  and a plurality of second slots  1449 . The first slots  1448  and the second slots  1449  permit the coupling of EM energy from a first region above the slotted antenna  1446  to a second region below the slotted antenna wherein the resonator plate  1450  is located. 
         [0209]    The number, geometry, size, and distribution of the first slots  1448  and second slots  1449  can be factors that can contribute to the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasma formed in process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the design of the slotted antenna  1446  may be used to control the spatial uniformity and stability of the plasmas in the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0210]    Still referring to  FIG. 14A  and  FIG. 14B , the resonator plate  1450  comprises a dielectric plate having a plate thickness  1451  and a plate diameter  1452 . For example, the plasma-facing surface  1460  on resonator plate  1450  can comprise a planar surface  1461  within which the channel recess  1455  can be formed. Alternatively, the resonator plate  1450  may comprise an arbitrary geometry that can include concave, and/or convex surfaces. 
         [0211]    The propagation of EM energy in the resonator plate  1450  may be characterized by an effective wavelength (λ) for a given frequency of EM energy and dielectric constant for the resonator plate  1450 . The plate thickness  1451  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the plate thickness  1451  may be about a half wavelength thick (λ/2) or greater than about half the effective wavelength (&gt;λ/2). Alternatively, the plate thickness  1451  may range from about 25 mm (millimeters) to about 45 mm. 
         [0212]    The first channel width  1457 , the second channel width  1458 , the opening width  1492 , and the gas passage width  1497  can be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). Additionally, a first difference  1453  between the plate thickness  1451  and the first depth  1456  may be an integer number of quarter wavelengths (nλ/4), where n is an integer greater than zero) or an integer number of half wavelengths (mλ/2), where m is an integer greater than zero). For instance, the channel width, the opening width  1492 , and the gas passage width  1497  can be about one half the effective wavelength (λ/2). Alternatively, the opening width  1492 , and the gas passage width  1497  may range from about 2 mm to about 15 mm, and the first difference  1453  between the plate thickness  1451  and the depths ( 1456 ,  1491 , and  1496 ) may range from about 1 mm to about 35 mm. 
         [0213]    In the channel recess  1455 , the opening  1490 , and/or the gas passage  1495 , rounds and/or fillets (i.e., surface/corner radius) can be utilized to affect smooth surface transitions between adjacent surfaces. In a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the bottom of the recess. Additionally, in a cylindrical recess, a surface radius may be disposed at the corner between the cylindrical sidewall and the plasma-facing surface  1460 . For example, the surface radius may range from about 1 mm to about 3 mm. 
         [0214]    Although not shown in any one of the embodiments provided in  FIGS. 8 through 14 , one or more recesses may be interconnected. Additionally, one or more recesses of one recess configuration may be interconnected with one or more recesses of another recess configuration. For example, one or more recesses may be interconnected or linked by a groove or channel. 
         [0215]      FIG. 15  illustrates a flow diagram for an exemplary operating procedure for a SWP processing system in accordance with embodiments of the invention. A multi-step procedure  1500  is shown in  FIG. 15 . Alternatively, other steps may be included. 
         [0216]    In  1510 , a Surface Wave Plasma (SWP) source can be coupled to a process chamber ( 110 ,  FIG. 1 ). During various DC/SWP-related procedures, the SWP sources ( 150 ,  FIG. 1 ) can comprise an electromagnetic (EM) wave launcher ( 832 ,  FIGS. 8A and 8B ), or the EM wave launcher ( 932 ,  FIGS. 9A and 9B ), or the EM wave launcher ( 1032 ,  FIGS. 10A and 10B ), or the EM wave launcher ( 1132 ,  FIGS. 11A and 11B ), or the EM wave launcher ( 1232 ,  FIGS. 12A and 12B ), or the EM wave launcher ( 1332 ,  FIGS. 13A and 13B ), or the EM wave launcher ( 1432 ,  FIGS. 14A and 14B ), or any combination thereof. In addition, the plasma-facing surfaces ( 161 ,  FIG. 1 ) of the SWP sources ( 150 ,  FIG. 1 ) can comprise surface ( 861 ,  FIG. 8B ), or the surface ( 961 ,  FIG. 9B ), or the surface ( 1061 ,  FIG. 10B ), or the surface ( 1161 ,  FIG. 11B ), or the surface ( 1261 ,  FIG. 12B ), or the surface ( 1361 ,  FIG. 13B ), or the surface ( 1461 ,  FIG. 14B ), or any combination thereof. Furthermore, the recesses ( 165 ,  FIG. 1 ) in the plasma-facing surfaces ( 161 ,  FIG. 1 ) can comprise the recesses ( 855  and/or  865 ,  FIGS. 8A and 8B ), or the recesses ( 955  and/or  965 ,  FIGS. 9A and 9B ), or the recesses ( 1055  and/or  1065 ,  FIGS. 10A and 10B ), or the recesses ( 1155 ,  1165 , and/or  1195 ,  FIGS. 11A and 11B ), or the recesses ( 1255  and/or  1265 ,  FIGS. 12A and 12B ), or the recesses ( 1355 ,  FIGS. 13A and 13B ), or the recesses ( 1455 ,  FIGS. 14A and 14B ), or any combination thereof. 
         [0217]    The EM energy can be coupled to the SWP source  150  via the feed assembly  140 , and one or more mode changes can occur in the feed assembly  140 . Additional details regarding the design of the feed assembly  140  and the slot antenna  146  can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,024,716, entitled “Plasma processing apparatus for etching, ashing, and film-formation”; the content of which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
         [0218]    In  1515 , a Direct Current (DC) ring subsystem ( 175 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to the process chamber ( 110 ,  FIG. 1 ). During various DC/SWP-related procedures, the DC ring subsystem ( 175 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to at least one distribution subsystem ( 172 ,  FIG. 1 ) that can be coupled to one or more power subsystem ( 170 ,  FIG. 1 ). The DC ring subsystem ( 175 , FIG.) can comprise a non-segmented configuration ( 275 ,  FIGS. 2A and 2B ); can comprise a first segmented configuration ( 375   a - 375   h ,  FIGS. 3A and 3B ); can comprise a second segmented configuration ( 475   a - 475   h ,  FIGS. 4A and 4B ); can comprise a third segmented configuration ( 575   a - 575   h ,  FIGS. 5A and 5B ); can comprise a fourth segmented configuration ( 675   a - 675   h ,  FIGS. 6A and 6B ); or can comprise a fifth segmented configuration ( 775   a - 775   h ,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ), or any combination thereof. Alternatively, segmented or non-segmented ring subsystems may be used. 
         [0219]    The distribution subsystem ( 172 , FIG.) can comprise a non-segmented configuration ( 272 ,  FIGS. 2A and 2B ); can comprise a second non-segmented configuration ( 372 ,  FIGS. 3A and 3B ); can comprise a first segmented configuration ( 472   a - 472   h ,  FIGS. 4A and 4B ); can comprise a third non-segmented configuration ( 572 ,  FIGS. 5A and 5B ); can comprise a second segmented configuration ( 672   a - 672   h ,  FIGS. 6A and 6B ); or can comprise a fourth non-segmented configuration ( 772 ,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ), or any combination thereof. Alternatively, segmented or non-segmented distribution subsystems may be used. 
         [0220]    The power subsystem ( 170 , FIG.) can comprise a non-segmented configuration ( 270 ,  FIGS. 2A and 2B ); can comprise a second non-segmented configuration ( 370 ,  FIGS. 3A and 3B ); can comprise a first segmented configuration ( 470   a - 470   h ,  FIGS. 4A and 4B ); can comprise a third non-segmented configuration ( 570 ,  FIGS. 5A and 5B ); can comprise a second segmented configuration ( 670   a - 670   h ,  FIGS. 6A and 6B ); or can comprise a fourth non-segmented configuration ( 770 ,  FIGS. 7A and 7B ), or any combination thereof. Alternatively, segmented or non-segmented power subsystems may be used. 
         [0221]    In  1520 , a substrate ( 105 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be positioned on a substrate holder ( 120 ,  FIG. 1 ) in a process chamber ( 110 ,  FIG. 1 ), and one or more SWP sources ( 150 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to the process chamber ( 110 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0222]    In  1525 , process gas can be supplied into the process chamber ( 110 ,  FIG. 1 ). During dry plasma etching, the process gas may comprise an etchant, a passivant, or an inert gas, or a combination of two or more thereof. For example, when plasma etching a dielectric film such as silicon oxide (SiO x ) or silicon nitride (Si x N y ), the plasma etch gas composition generally includes a fluorocarbon-based chemistry (C x F y ) such as at least one of C 4 F 8 , C 5 F 8 , C 3 F 6 , C 4 F 6 , CF 4 , etc., and/or may include a fluorohydrocarbon-based chemistry (C x H y F z ) such as at least one of CHF 3 , CH 2 F 2 , etc., and can have at least one of an inert gas, oxygen, CO or CO 2 . Additionally, for example, when etching polycrystalline silicon (poliesilicon), the plasma etch gas composition generally includes a halogen-containing gas such as HBr, Cl 2 , NF 3 , or SF 6  or a combination of two or more thereof, and may include fluorohydrocarbon-based chemistry (C x H y F z ) such as at least one of CHF 3 , CH 2 F 2 , etc., and at least one of an inert gas, oxygen, CO or CO 2 , or two or more thereof. During plasma-enhanced deposition, the process gas may comprise a film forming precursor, a reduction gas, or an inert gas, or a combination of two or more thereof. 
         [0223]    In  1530 , one or more tunable EM signals can be provided to at least one SWP source ( 150 ,  FIG. 1 ). In some embodiments, one or more EM sources ( 190 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to the SWP source ( 150 ,  FIG. 1 ) that can comprise a slot antenna ( 146 ,  FIG. 1 ) coupled to a resonator plate ( 160 ,  FIG. 1 ). For example, the controller can control the tunable EM signals in real-time when creating a uniform DC/SWP plasma, and the tunable EM signals can vary from about 0 watts to about 5000 watts. 
         [0224]    One or more controllers ( 195 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to the EM source ( 190 ,  FIG. 1 ), the match network/phase shifter ( 191 ,  FIG. 1 ), the tuner network/isolator ( 192 ,  FIG. 1 ), and at least one controller ( 195 ,  FIG. 1 ) can use process recipes to establish, control, and optimize the EM source ( 190 ,  FIG. 1 ), the match network/phase shifter ( 191 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the tuner network/isolator ( 192 ,  FIG. 1 ) to control the DC/SWP plasma uniformity within the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0225]    In  1535 , one or more tunable DC signals can be provided to at least one DC ring subsystem ( 175 ,  FIG. 1 ). In some embodiments, one or more DC power sources ( 170 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to the DC ring subsystem ( 175 ,  FIG. 1 ) using one or more distribution subsystems ( 172 ,  FIG. 1 ). For example, the controller can control the tunable DC signals in real-time when creating a uniform DC/SWP plasma, and the tunable DC signals can vary from about −5000 V dc  to about +5000 V dc . 
         [0226]    One or more controllers ( 195 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to the DC power source ( 170 ,  FIG. 1 ), the distribution subsystem ( 172 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the DC ring subsystem ( 175 ,  FIG. 1 ), and at least one controller ( 195 ,  FIG. 1 ) can use process recipes to establish, control, and optimize the DC power source ( 170 ,  FIG. 1 ), the distribution subsystem ( 172 ,  FIG. 1 ), and the DC ring subsystem ( 175 ,  FIG. 1 ) to control the DC/SWP plasma uniformity within the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0227]    In addition, one or more controllers ( 195 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to the first gas supply system ( 180 ,  FIG. 1 ), the second gas supply subsystem ( 182 ,  FIG. 1 ), and at least one controller ( 195 ,  FIG. 1 ) can use process recipes to establish, control, and optimize the first gas supply system ( 180 ,  FIG. 1 ), the second gas supply subsystem ( 182 ,  FIG. 1 ) to control the DC/SWP plasma uniformity within the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0228]    Furthermore, one or more controllers ( 195 ,  FIG. 1 ) can be coupled to the RF generator ( 130 ,  FIG. 1 ), the impedance match network ( 131 ,  FIG. 1 ), and RF sensor ( 135 ,  FIG. 1 ), and at least one controller ( 195 ,  FIG. 1 ) can use process recipes to establish, control, and optimize the RF generator ( 130 ,  FIG. 1 ), the impedance match network ( 131 ,  FIG. 1 ), and RF sensor ( 135 ,  FIG. 1 ) to control the DC/SWP plasma uniformity within the process space ( 115 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0229]    In  1540 , the substrate can be processed using the uniform DC/SWP plasma in the process chamber ( 110 ,  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0230]    Although only certain embodiments of this invention have been described in detail above, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the embodiments without materially departing from the novel teachings and advantages of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention. 
         [0231]    Thus, the description is not intended to limit the invention and the configuration, operation, and behavior of the present invention has been described with the understanding that modifications and variations of the embodiments are possible, given the level of detail present herein. Accordingly, the preceding detailed description is not mean or intended to, in any way, limit the invention—rather the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims.