Silicon wafers have flats, which are small notches or straight edges on the outer circumference of the wafer, for a few reasons:
- Orientation: Flats are used to indicate the orientation of the crystal lattice structure within the silicon wafer. The flat edge is typically aligned with a specific crystallographic orientation, such as the (100) or (111) plane, and serves as a reference point for the wafer’s orientation.
- Identification: Flats are also used to identify the wafer and provide information about its properties. The flat edge may be marked with information such as the manufacturer’s name, wafer diameter, and doping type.
- Handling: Flats provide a reference point for handling the wafer during the manufacturing process. The flat edge can be used to orient the wafer in a processing tool, ensuring that the correct side of the wafer is exposed to the processing steps.
- Quality control: Flats can also be used as a quality control tool. By examining the flat edge, technicians can check for defects or irregularities in the crystal structure that may affect the performance of the final device.
In summary, flats on silicon wafers serve as a reference point for the orientation, identification, handling, and quality control of the wafer during the manufacturing process.
