Agilent Technologies Introduces Next-Generation Parametric Test Software
New Version Delivers Seamless Laboratory and Development Environment for Parametric Test on Parameter Analyzers, Desktop PCs
Palo Alto, CA - Agilent Technologies Inc. introduced the next generation of its EasyEXPERT parametric analysis software for the Agilent B1500A semiconductor device analyzer. EasyEXPERT 2.0 provides an intuitive, task-oriented approach to semiconductor device characterization. It is used to test devices in non-production applications, such as process development, modeling, reliability and failure analysis. Agilent is also introducing Desktop EasyEXPERT 2.0, which allows users to quickly and easily develop application tests and perform data analysis on MS Windows-based PCs. Now for the first time, users can run the same parametric test software on both their parameter analyzer and their desktop PC, creating a seamless laboratory and development environment for parametric test whether working in the lab or at their desks.
"EasyEXPERT 2.0 and Desktop EasyEXPERT 2.0 provide engineers in laboratory environments with capabilities previously available only in parametric test production environments," said Minoru Ebihara, vice president and general manager of Agilent's Hachioji Semiconductor Test Division. "The intuitive approach of EasyEXPERT has already been widely adopted by the industry since we introduced it last year. We expect that the powerful new features in this version, combined with the Desktop EasyEXPERT option, will help our customers improve their productivity even further."
EasyEXPERT 2.0 features several new capabilities, including a new quick test mode, an improved switching matrix control function for the Agilent B2200A and B2201A, and a new automatic data-export option. These features allow engineers and scientists working in semiconductor process characterization and development to improve efficiency and reduce costs by automating many tasks that would have been performed manually in the past, such as making repetitive measurements across a wafer and graphically comparing the results.
Until now, EasyEXPERT was available only on the Agilent B1500A Semiconductor Device Analyzer, which has been shipping since August 2005. With the release of EasyEXPERT 2.0, Agilent is offering a free version of the software, Desktop EasyEXPERT 2.0, to new and existing Agilent B1500A customers. Desktop EasyEXPERT 2.0 runs on MS Windows-based PCs and allows the user to quickly and easily develop application tests and perform data analysis. Because Desktop EasyEXPERT allows users to move these functions to a separate PC, the B1500A's measurement resources can be used at almost 100 percent efficiency. If Agilent I/O libraries and a GPIB (General Purpose Interface Bus) interface are installed on the PC, then Desktop EasyEXPERT 2.0 can also be used to control the B1500A externally.
The new quick test feature in EasyEXPERT 2.0 provides an efficient automated test environment, allowing the user to synchronize sequences of tests with the wafermap resident on a semi-automatic wafer prober. This speeds up a previously complex and time-consuming process and reduces the cost of test. EasyEXPERT 2.0 also features an improved switching-matrix control function for the Agilent B2200A and B2201A switching matrices. It allows users to easily switch between devices under test (DUT) and can be used within quick test mode to automate the DUT selection within a module. The new automatic export capability improves data management by enabling the user to select the exact filename, format and output destination for data taken both interactively and when using quick test mode.
Since Desktop EasyEXPERT runs on a standard PC, it gives users complete control over their PC hardware configuration and permits full compliance with their companies' approved IT standards. Future versions of Desktop EasyEXPERT are expected to support other Agilent instruments used in semiconductor process characterization. However, just like the version of EasyEXPERT resident on the B1500A, Desktop EasyEXPERT supports GPIB communication, enabling the user to control other instruments directly through GPIB commands.
In addition to an improved feature set, EasyEXPERT 2.0 includes a new conversion tool that enables current users of the Agilent 4155 and 4156 Semiconductor Parameter Analyzers to import their setup files into the EasyEXPERT environment when upgrading to the B1500A. This eliminates the need to recreate those files, thereby minimizing switching costs and allowing users quickly to begin using the B1500A.
EasyEXPERT 2.0 is expected to be available May 1, 2006. At that time, current B1500A EasyEXPERT 1.0 users can download the free software upgrade by going to www.agilent.com/see/B1500A. The initial version of Desktop EasyEXPERT also will be made available for free to existing and future B1500A customers.
SOURCE: Agilent Technologies Inc.