This module puts the individual micro fabrication process steps (covered in earlier courses) in an integrated process flow or sequence, to fabricate a complete IC (integrated circuit) wafer. A simple example of the early 3 micro m CMOS circuit chip process flow is walked through. The market specification drivers of the IC circuit is touched upon.

Semiconductor industry is a uniquely remarkable industry that has experienced tremendous increase in computation capability, decrease in chip size, decrease in energy consumption and decrease in cost, all at the same time. This transformational industry continues to see Moore’s law evolve in new ways like parallel algorithms in the software, environment interaction device types (MEMS) built from semiconductor materials and fabrication processes, and quantum computing. The Microtechnology ecosystem is strong within USA and includes the leading R&D entities located across the country. There are industry associations and networks that serve this community.