Methodology for electromigration critical threshold design rule evaluation
We propose a methodology using nodal analysis techniques compatible with existing computer-aided design (CAD) tools for implementing critical threshold design rules for electromigration reliability, The concept underlying critical threshold design rules is the observation that a mechanical stress-induced backflow of metal atoms is created by electromigration in interconnect lines confined by a rigid dielectric, If the steady-state balance of these two atomic fluxes is achieved before critical electromigration damage is realized, then the line can be considered to be virtually immortal with negligible reliability risk. A design rule based on this critical threshold criterion has the potential to give designers added flexibility to use currents larger than present design rules typically allow in short interconnects.
electromigration design rules reliability interconnect