Patent ID: 8597473

Claim:
A method of performing sputter deposition implemented using a microprocessor control module and based on time without the use of feedback loops, comprising: programming the microprocessor control module with pre-determined time sequences by using an object program using mathematical formulas to enhance and manage the operating parameters; positioning a substrate within a reaction chamber containing a metal target; generating a control signal based on the programmed pre-determined time sequences to evacuate ambient gas from the reaction chamber; filling the reaction chamber with inert gas using an inert gas controller; generating an electrical current flow at constant voltage across the metal target; generating a time-response gradient for initiating gas flow from a reactive gas supply by establishing a relationship between power level from a system power supply and time in order to initiate reactive gas flow according to the programmed pre-determined time sequences; and introducing a reactive gas to the reaction chamber based on the-programmed pre-determined time sequences without the use of feedback loops or parameter monitoring by periods using a reactive gas controller at a predetermined time in a sequence of operation of the inert gas controller and the system power supply whereby reactive gas flow rate to avoid cathode poisoning is calculated by equation V T =( V react )(1+ Ex ) wherein V T is the total reactive gas flow rate; V react is the required volume of reactive gas per gram of target; and Ex is the percent of excess reactive gas depending on a system configuration; wherein the equation is programmed into the microprocessor control module.