Technology development: focus on manufacturability

The authors discuss the integration of manufacturability from the early stages of technology development based on the experiences of the leading-edge semiconductor development program at IBM´s facility in Essex Junction, Vermont. An overview is presented of the methods used, the resultant line and information architectures developed, and experience and results to date. Major changes in the technology development cycle are required. The traditional laboratory role of design and process development has expanded to include a parallel responsibility for manufacturability. Design for manufacturability (DFM) and early manufacturing involvement (EMI) concepts are now major components of the development effort designed to maintain and enhance the rate of technology advancement and significantly improve the development-to-manufacturing transition