FormFactor has several upcoming webinars that are now available for registration.

Risk Mitigation Strategies for mmWave Production Test Environments

EMEA/ Asia Event: October 3, 2024 – 9:00am CST

Americas Event: October 3, 2024 – 9:00am PST / 5:00pm CST

As 5G networks continue to roll out globally, antenna transceivers operating within the 24.25 GHz to 43.5 GHz frequency range have become essential components in premium smartphones. These transceivers rely on advanced beam steering and beamforming technologies to enhance wireless data transmission, which requires precise phase control across as many as 32 RF signals. To ensure these chips are fully verified as Known Good Die (KGD) before integration into modules, it’s critical that testing solutions provide lab-grade RF measurement precision at production scale.

Membrane-based probe technologies are well-suited to meet the stringent electrical requirements of these tests, but they introduce new challenges. Higher probing forces are required, making setup precision and system deflection management vital for maintaining both reliable contact performance and probe durability. The complexity increases further when testing in parallel to drive down the Cost of Test. For example, in an eight-site probe head configuration, hundreds of nets—many carrying RF signals—are managed through approximately 5000 probe contacts, generating probing forces between 50 and 80 kilograms.

This presentation examines several strategies and specialized equipment used to collect empirical data on Actual vs. Programmed Overtravel in multi-site RF probe cards. We’ll discuss how this data is utilized to develop baseline models for predictive Finite Element Analysis (FEA), which will enable further improvements in future testing applications. These approaches help mitigate common risks associated with mmWave chip testing in high-volume manufacturing, ultimately contributing to significant reductions in the overall Cost of Test.

Inclined vs. Horizontal Waveguide Port Saver Approach in WR3.4 Band for On-Wafer Measurements

EMEA/ Asia Event: October 17, 2024 – 9:00am CEST/ 3:00pm CST

Americas Event: October 17, 2024 – 9:00am PDT

High-frequency on-wafer measurements often require the use of waveguide-based frequency extenders. At FormFactor, we rely heavily on inclined frequency extenders, utilizing both coaxial single-sweep and banded waveguide configurations. This method proves highly effective for wafer probers, as the platen is thermally optimized with insulation layers to ensure maximum stability in probe positioning and mechanics.

One major advantage of inclined frequency extenders is their natural distance from the heated wafer chuck, which helps improve temperature stability. However, until now, our evaluation of this technique has been limited to frequencies up to 220 GHz and under ambient conditions only. In this work, we compare and contrast the stability of the inclined configuration against the direct-connected horizontal approach, both in ambient conditions and at elevated temperatures. T-Wave probes and waveguide-based Infinity probes are utilized for these measurements in the WR3.4 band, providing valuable insights into performance and stability across different setups.

Velox Dash™ – A Modern Touchscreen-Based Interface for Intuitive Probe Station Control

EMEA/ Asia Event: November 5, 2024 – 9:00am CEST/ 4:00pm CST

Americas Event: November 5, 2024 – 9:00am PST

Introducing FormFactor’s latest innovation—Velox Dash™. This cutting-edge companion device streamlines probe station control, offering quick access to essential functions with just a tap. Its sleek, modern interface sets a new benchmark for intuitive operation, making it easier than ever to navigate engineering probe stations.

Velox Dash combines the convenience of a touch-based interface with the flexibility to adapt to various work environments. It also consolidates the capabilities of both the hardware joystick and eVue remote control into one seamless platform. Designed with the user in mind, Velox Dash transforms daily tasks into a more efficient and satisfying experience.

Join our upcoming webinar to explore the latest features and capabilities of Velox Dash and see how it can revolutionize your workflow.

 

Hope to see you at these webinars soon!