IMEC nears 3D DRAM on logic integration

The 3D demonstrator mimics all aspects of the approach by stacking an advanced commercial DRAM product chip on IMEC's proprietary CMOS logic IC. As an example, heaters are integrated to test the impact of hotspot on DRAM refresh times. And, the chip contains test structures for monitoring thermo-mechanical stress in a 3D stack, ESD hazards, electrical characteristics of TSVs and micro-bumps, fault models for TSVs, etc.

The design of the 3D chip is realised together with many players in the 3D integration supply chain. Now, IMEC is manufacturing the logic die in its prototype line, and will be stacking the commercial DRAM chip on top of it. One of IMEC's 3D integration partners will deliver the DRAM dies, and will test the fabricated 3D stack; two other partners, will package the 3D stack using flip-chip onto a FBGA substrate.

"We are excited to achieve this milestone in collaboration with our 3D integration partners including memory suppliers and IC manufacturers. This test-chip is a significant step for the introduction of 3D technology in DRAM-on-logic applications," said Pol Marchal, principal scientist 3D integration at IMEC.