A high performance, high yield, dry-etched, pseudomorphic HEMT for W-band use

A GaAs pseudomorphic HEMT process has been optimised for high performance and yield at W-band. Several key nano-fabrication techniques are explored for performance, manufacturability and process sensitivity. The molecular beam epitaxially grown pHEMT layer is optimised for reduced short channel effects, high transconductance (690 mS/mm) and reliability. Electron-beam lithography produces ultra short T-gates with high reproducibility. Selective reactive ion etching enables both the depth and width of the gate recess to be accurately controlled. 0.2 /spl mu/m pHEMTs with two 50 /spl mu/m gate fingers exhibit average values for f/sub T/ and f/sub max/ of 121 and 157 GHz with low standard deviations of 4.6 and 2.9 GHz respectively.< >