Permanent chip ID using FeRAM
AssigneesTexas Instruments Incorporated, Agilent Technologies, Inc.
InventorsHugh P. McAdams, James W. Grace
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An integrated circuit (IC) chip contains a small non-volatile “ID” memory such as an FeRAM array that stores information associated with manufacturing, testing, and performance of the IC chip. The stored information can include but is not limited to a serial number, a wafer ID, a batch ID, a date code, chip history, test data, and performance information. The storing information on the chip eliminates any difficulty in matching the information with the IC chip and provides a flexible permanent record of any information the manufacturer may find useful. The ID memory thus permits tracking and identification of ICs to a degree that was not previously practical.
Claims20
An integrated circuit comprising:
- functional units capable of performing normal functions of the integrated circuit;
- and
- an ID memory that stores information associated with manufacture and testing of the integrated circuit.
A manufacturing process for an integrated circuit, comprising:
- fabricating the integrated circuit to include a memory that is accessible during the manufacturing process;
- and
- writing information into the memory during manufacturing process, wherein the information identifies the integrated circuit.
A testing process for an integrated circuit comprising:
- testing the integrated circuit;
- and
- writing in a memory in the integrated circuit information indicating a result of the testing.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.