Online Support

Metrios AX – Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

High productivity transmission electron microscope for semiconductor metrology and process characterization.

Advanced logic and memory manufacturing processes are becoming more reliant on fast turnaround of precise structural and analytical data to be able to quickly calibrate tool sets, diagnose yield excursions, and optimize process yields. At technology nodes below 28nm, especially in cases where 3D and advanced device designs are being implemented, conventional SEM or optical-based analysis and inspection tools run into challenges that limit their ability to provide robust and reliable data. The Thermo Scientific Metrios AX transmission electron microscope (TEM) is the first TEM dedicated to providing the fast, precise characterization and reference metrology that semiconductor manufacturers need to develop and control their wafer fabrication processes in order to accelerate profitable yield.

High-volume TEM data, accurate and repeatable

The Metrios AX TEM automates the basic TEM operation and measurement procedures, minimizing the requirements for specialized operator training. Its advanced automated metrology routines deliver significantly greater precision than manual methods. The Metrios AX TEM is designed to provide improved throughput and lower cost-per-sample than other TEMs.

High Tension Range (kV) 60-200 kV
Information Limit 200 kV (nm) 0.11
Non-corrected Probe corrected*
STEM HAADF Resolution (nm) 200 kV
  • ≤0.164
  • ≤0.083
STEM HAADF Resolution (nm) 80 kV
  • ≤0.31
  • ≤0.11
Metrology precision on MetroCal wafer for horizontal and vertical 
  • ≤0.3 nm 3σ
Electron source
  • X-CFEG or XFEG
Ultra-stable electronics and high tension
  • Included
Acoustic enclosure
  • Included
Constant power lenses
  • Included
Piezo stage
  • Included
Probe corrector compatible
  • Yes

Consistent, repeatable, precise

Designed from the ground-up to deliver repeatable TEM and STEM-based imaging, analytics and gauge capable metrology.

Metrology accuracy

Less than 0.75% combined error in distortion and magnification calibration for both TEM and STEM.

Automated EDS and hybrid metrology

Acquire and quantify EDS data with automation. Use elemental contrast on key critical dimensions to extend STEM.

Workflow connectivity

Critical process data is tracked through sample prep, plucking, and imaging. Metrology can be applied offline to maximize tool acquisition time. All imaging and metrology data is consolidated in a web-based image viewer.

  • Semiconductor Advanced Packaging
  • Semiconductor research and development
  • Semiconductor metrology
  • Semiconductor Failure Analysis
  • Semiconductor materials characterization

TEM Imaging and Analysis

Thermo Scientific transmission electron microscopes offer high-resolution imaging and analysis of semiconductor devices, enabling manufacturers to calibrate toolsets, diagnose failure mechanisms, and optimize overall process yields.

TEM Metrology

Advanced and automated TEM metrology routines deliver significantly greater precision than manual methods. This allows users to generate large amounts of statistically relevant data, with sub-angstrom-level specificity, that is free of operator bias.