Reliability Prediction for Microwave Transistors.

Abstract

This report presents the results of a study to evaluate the failure mechanisms that occur in state-of-the-art microwave power transistors, and to predict the reliability and lifetime that might be expected from these devices. A series of accelerated r-f life tests of both aluminum and refractory metal-gold metallized transistors were carried out under both CW and pulsed conditions. The aluminum metallized devices were found to be susceptible to failure due to electromigration voiding of the metallization. This failure mechanism will limit the useful lifetime of these devices. The refractory metal-gold devices were found to have a long life capability, but metallization peeling on some devices limited their lifetime during these tests. Further effort is necessary to evaluate the peeling problem and proposed solutions. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jun 01, 1976
Accession Number
ADA027849

Entities

People

  • Donald J. Lacombe
  • Ronald J. Naster

Organizations

  • General Electric

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aluminum
  • Failure Mode And Effect Analysis
  • Life Expectancy (Service Life)
  • Life Tests
  • Long Life
  • Metals
  • Microwaves
  • Refractory Metals
  • Reliability
  • Transistors

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Integrated Circuit Design and Technology.
  • Structural Health Monitoring of Composite Structures.
  • Thin Film Deposition Science.