Impedance-matching network using BJT switches in variable-reactance circuits

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United States of America Patent

PATENT NO 9124248
SERIAL NO

13786813

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Abstract

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This disclosure describes systems, methods, and apparatuses for impedance-matching radio frequency power transmitted from a radio frequency generator to a plasma load in a semiconductor processing chamber. Impedance-matching can be performed via a match network having a variable-reactance circuit. The variable-reactance circuit can comprise one or more reactive elements all connected to a first terminal and selectively shorted to a second terminal via a switch. The switch can comprise a bipolar junction transistor (BJT) or insulated gate bipolar transistor (IGBT) controlled via bias circuitry. In an on-state, the BJT base-emitter junction is forward biased, and AC is conducted between a collector terminal and a base terminal. Thus, AC passes through the BJT primarily from collector to base rather than from collector to emitter. Furthermore, the classic match network topology used with vacuum variable capacitors can be modified such that voltages do not overload the BJT's in the modified topology.

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Patent Owner(s)

Patent OwnerAddress
AES GLOBAL HOLDINGS PTE LTD9 RAFFLES PLACE #26-01 REPUBLIC PLAZA SINGAPORE 048619

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Inventor(s)

Inventor Name Address # of filed Patents Total Citations
Gurov, Gennady G Loveland, US 22 961
Van, Zyl Gideon J Fort Collins, US 7 502

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