While every effort is made to get IC designs right the first time, in reality, this seldom happens.
If it does, then the design is either trivial or an iteration of what has done before.
As IC fabrication can take up to 12 weeks, it is crucial to get the next iterations right. This is where the use of Focussed Ion Beams (FIB) can provide great insights ... but only if used properly.
In the past few years, I have done some pretty cool "edits" using FIB including re-wiring of digital clocks ! (yes, you can deposit conductive material as well as cut metal traces)
As it can be very useful, I am surprised that it is not that widely publicized.
Care to comment anyone ?
If it does, then the design is either trivial or an iteration of what has done before.
As IC fabrication can take up to 12 weeks, it is crucial to get the next iterations right. This is where the use of Focussed Ion Beams (FIB) can provide great insights ... but only if used properly.
In the past few years, I have done some pretty cool "edits" using FIB including re-wiring of digital clocks ! (yes, you can deposit conductive material as well as cut metal traces)
As it can be very useful, I am surprised that it is not that widely publicized.
Care to comment anyone ?