Constant-Depth Mode Scanning Acoustic Microscope

Figure 1. C-SAM equipment.

Features

C-SAM, also known as Scanning Acoustic Tomography (SAT), is a non-destructive method for observing defects such as delamination.

By using acoustic waves, it is possible to observe not only the sample surface, but also the internal structure. The method is independent of the optical properties of the sample.

Because of the large reflection at the air interface, voids and cracks inside the package of electronic components can be observed with high sensitivity. Determination of the defect area is done by spatially analysing the waveform of reflected or transmitted ultrasonic acoustic waves at each measurement point. Contrary to X-ray computed tomography (CT), it is possible to determine the adhesion state of electrodes and bonded wafers.

Defect Analysis Examples

  • Semiconductor package products

  • Electronic components, both internally and externally.

  • Hole detection at the silicon wafer bonding interface

  • Adhesion at the bonding interface of metal plates

  • Surface-Mount LEDs

  • Adhesives, adhesive tapes, etc.

  • Porosity in ceramics materials

Principle

By analysing the waveform of the reflected ultrasonic wave emitted from the probe (transducer), the internal structure the sample can be visualized. Since the acoustic impedance changes at the interface of different materials, the acoustic reflectance changes and hence also the intensity of the reflected wave. This change is proportional to the difference in acoustic impedance of the materials at each interface and the reflections are particularly strong when one of the materials is air. Interfaces with a large difference in acoustic impedance also introduces a \(180{^\circ}\) phase shift.

Figure 2. Scattering of ultra-sonic waves from a laminated (left) and delaminated (right) surface interfaces.

Data examples

Figure 3. Photo (left) of a transistor subject to defect analysis and specifications (right) of the observation (1) and depth information (2) directions.

Figure 4. Top of sample (left) and depth information (right)

As shown to the left of Figure 4, strong reflections occur around the wire in the failed product.

The right-hand side of Figure 4 shows the depth information and hence the cross section, form which it can be judged that the defect is located slightly above the chip-bonding tip.

Figure 5. Example of a semiconductor chip analysis. The left photo shows the image from the acoustic wave reflection at the surface. The right image includes also internal reflections, from which internal wiring can be analysed.

Data delivery formats

  • Image data (JPEG file)

Measurement specifications

Property

Value

Unit

Notes

Maximum sample size

\[400 \times 400 \times 50\]

\[w \times d \times h\]

mm

Measurement range

\[1\sim 307\] \[\text{mm}^{2}\]

In-plane resolution

12 – 130

\[\mu\text{m}\]

Depends on frequency

Frequency

15, 25, 50, 100, 230

MHz

The higher the frequency, the higher the resolution, but the transmission of the ultrasound is reduced.

Other measurements

Transmission scan, water spill.

Items for enquiries

  • Purpose of analysis and scope of measurement

  • Sample information:

    1. Shape (dimensions) and quantity

    2. Structure and composition (material, film thicknesses)

    3. Availability of a reference sample

    4. Handling instructions

  • Other relevant information

Caution

The following type of samples may adversely affect the sample, equipment, and/or result, and measurement may therefore not be possible.

  • Samples that cannot be immersed in water (water resistance required)

  • Sample with a large surface roughness

  • Water-soluble components.

  • Samples that are not able to withstand temperatures above \(40℃\).

Consultation and application for analysis

Our knowledgeable sales representatives will propose the most appropriate analysis plan.
Please feel free to contact us for a quote on the cost of your analysis.
For consultation and application, please use the inquiry form or call us.

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てむぞう&ますみん

Temuzo&Masumin