N Johan Knall

Title: N Johan Knall: A Pioneer in Semiconductor Innovations

Introduction

N Johan Knall is a prominent inventor based in Sunnyvale, CA, known for his significant contributions to semiconductor technology. With an impressive portfolio of 41 patents, he has played a crucial role in advancing memory array technology and dielectric film fabrication processes. His work has greatly benefited the field of electronics, particularly in optimizing memory device performance.

Latest Patents

Among Johan Knall's latest patents are pivotal innovations in the area of semiconductor memory. One noteworthy patent involves a "Silicon Nitride Antifuse for Use in Diode-Antifuse Memory Arrays." This innovation highlights the advantages of silicon nitride antifuses, which can be ruptured faster and at a lower breakdown field than those made from traditional materials like silicon dioxide. The patent provides examples of monolithic three-dimensional memory arrays featuring silicon nitride antifuses with memory cells arranged in rail-stacks and pillars, incorporating both PN and Schottky diodes. It emphasizes that pairing silicon nitride antifuses with low-density, high-resistivity conductors yields exceptional device performance.

Another significant patent is the "Process for Fabricating a Dielectric Film Using Plasma Oxidation." This patent describes a high-density plasma oxidation method to create dielectric films with precise thickness and uniformity. The technique is crucial for producing gate oxide layers, passivation layers, and antifuse layers in semiconductor memory devices, including multi-level memory arrays.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, N Johan Knall has been associated with notable companies in the semiconductor industry. He has worked with Matrix Semiconductor, Inc., and Candescent Technologies Corporation, where he has been able to apply his extensive knowledge and skills to drive innovation. His work at these companies has significantly contributed to advancements in memory technology.

Collaborations

Knall's impact in the field has been further enriched by his collaborations with esteemed colleagues, including James Montague Cleeves and Michael A. Vyvoda. Working alongside these professionals has enabled Johan to leverage collective expertise, fostering an environment of creativity and innovation.

Conclusion

N Johan Knall's contributions to the semiconductor industry through his patents and collaborations have established him as a leading inventor in the realm of memory technology. His advancements not only improve device performance but also pave the way for future innovations in the electronics field. As the industry continues to evolve, the importance of his work remains evident, marking him as a key figure in the ongoing journey of technological advancement.