Improved Mixed-Mode Simulation Tools for Radiation Hardening of Nanoscale Semiconductor Integrated Circuits

Strategic DoD satellite and missile systems (Space Based Radar, Space Tracking Surveillance Systems) operate in harsh radiation environments, and will be increasingly based on novel sub-100-nm semiconductor technologies and highly complex circuits. In order to ensure interruption-free operation, accurate prediction of the radiation response of these technologies and circuits is critical. To address this challenge, CFDRC, in collaboration with ISDE/Vanderbilt University, Mentor Graphics and Honeywell, proposes to develop an innovative mixed-mode simulation tool, which will feature: (a) Efficient coupling between CFDRC's NanoTCAD 3D device simulator and Berkeley SPICE circuit solver. This coupled tool will permit radiation-effects analysis at device-physics and full-scale circuit levels. (b) Improved quantum-physics models to accurately predict behavior of nanoscale technologies (90 nm, 65 nm). (c) Nanoscale radiation-effects models, such as Geant 4 particle ionization model, which are critical for deep-submicron technologies. In Phase I, the mixed-mode tool will be demonstrated for Single Event Effects in digital circuits. Additionally, alternative coupling mechanisms of NanoTCAD with ELDO circuit solver (Mentor Graphics) and with high-level behavioral simulator ModLyng (Lynguent) will be explored. In Phase II, analog circuitry and other radiation effects (Total Dose, Dose Rate) will be addressed, and the NanoTCAD interfaces with ELDO and ModLyng will be implemented.