Investigation of optical proximity correction (OPC) and non-uniformities on the performance of resistivity and linewidth measurements

The effect of optical proximity correction (OPC) on test structures is examined using DEPICT for the lithography simulation and MEDICI for the electrical calculations. It is concluded that OPC can be successfully used to reduce line shortening due to the voltage taps without causing necking effects on the track being measured. The effect of asymmetries (which may be introduced as a result of OPC) on the measurement of Greek crosses are also addressed and methods of accurately extracting sheet resistance from structures exhibiting these effects are discussed.