Registry

Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title	Semiconductor Physics I
Module Code	PS305
School	School of Physical Sciences
Online Module Resources
Module Co-ordinator	Semester 1: Colette McDonagh Semester 2: Colette McDonagh Autumn: Colette McDonagh
Module Teacher	Colette McDonagh
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5
Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

Description

This module introduces the student to the basics physics of semiconductor devices as well to key applications such as diodes, transistors and optoelectronic devices.The Intel-delivered part of the course gives the students an overview of semiconductor processing which is based on current Intel processes. The module is largely knowledge-based. The Intel element will impart some know-how with regard to semiconductor fabrication processes that will benefit students who either pursue postgraduate education in this area or who obtain employment in the sector.

Learning Outcomes

1. Describe and explain the main elements of semiconductor physics including a qualitative description of semiconductor bands.
2. Identify and discuss the key features of pn junctions
3. Derive the diode equation and other key equations relating to semiconductor physics
4. Indicate the operation of key devices such as tunnel diodes, rectifiers, bipolar and FET transistors
5. Describe the main semiconductor processing steps which lead to the fabrication of integrated circuits

Workload	Full-time hours per semester
*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Lecture	24	Lecture
Tutorial	6	Problem-solving session
Independent learning	50	Background reading and studying
Total Workload: 80

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Indicative content.
Conduction in metals and semiconductors,energy bands,electrons and holes.SEMICONDUCTOR MATERIALS:Doping effects on semiconductors n- and p- doping, Hall effect, drift, diffusion, recombination, photoconductivity, Gunn effect.JUNCTIONS:Abrupt and graded junctions, diode and transistor devices, MOSFETS, contacts.MANUFACTURING TECHNOLOGY:Processing techniques - photolithography, ion implantation,oxidation, metalisation, miniaturisation..

activities and teaching methodologies.
The teaching methodology used is via the traditional lecture mode but with interactive tutorials and quiz sessions. From the students point of view, their learning activities will be mainly centred around studying the concepts and relating these to numerical problem solving. The quiz sessions will also be a useful learning activity. All activities are assessed by the final examination..

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment	25%	Examination Weight	75%

Course Work Breakdown
Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date

Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; 1 = A resit is available for all components of the module 2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module 3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 3

Indicative Reading List

Ben G. Streetman: 0, Solid State Electronic Devices, 6th, Prentice Hall,
J. Wilson and J. Hawkes: 0, Optoelelectronics: An Introduction, Prentice Hall,
A. Barlev: 0, Semiconductors and Electronic Devices, Prentice Hall,

Other Resources

167, Intel Handout, 0, Semiconductor Processing,

Array

Programme or List of Programmes

BSc in Applied Physics

BSSA

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

BSSAO

Study Abroad (DCU Business School)

ECSA

Study Abroad (Engineering & Computing)

ECSAO