William J Boardman

Title: Innovations of William J. Boardman: Pioneering Flash Memory Technology

Introduction

William J. Boardman, an inventive mind based in San Jose, CA, has made significant contributions to the field of memory technology, holding a total of five patents. His work primarily revolves around advanced methods of fabricating flash memory cells and anti-fuse structures that enhance electronic device performance.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents, one noteworthy invention is the "Method of making flash memory cell". This innovation relates to a flash EEPROM cell that utilizes polysilicon-to-polysilicon hot electron emission technique for erasing the memory contents. Key components of this invention include a side gate, control gate, floating gate, and source and drain regions, with specific biasing to effectively manage the electron population within the floating gate. The design accommodates either double or triple polysilicon varieties and optimizes peripheral transistors by incorporating them from the last formed polysilicon layer, ensuring minimal degradation.

Another remarkable patent is the "Method for making cusp-free anti-fuse structures". This invention outlines a comprehensive process for creating an anti-fuse structure, which includes several pivotal steps such as forming a conductive base layer and an anti-fuse layer, patterning to create an anti-fuse island, and establishing conductive connections to the anti-fuse island. The innovative use of amorphous silicon for the anti-fuse island, potentially covered by a thin layer of a titanium-tungsten alloy, showcases the technical depth of Boardman's work.

Career Highlights

William J. Boardman has long been associated with VLSI Technology, Inc., where his innovative contributions have significantly aided the company's advancements in memory technology. His dedication and expertise within the realm of semiconductors have played a pivotal role in the development of efficient memory solutions that cater to modern technological requirements.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Boardman has collaborated with esteemed colleagues, including Kuang-Yeh Chang and Subhash R. Nariani. Their collective efforts have driven numerous projects forward, resulting in groundbreaking advancements in the semiconductor industry and solidifying their legacies as innovators.

Conclusion

In summary, William J. Boardman's contributions to the field of memory technology are marked by his innovative patents and collaborations. His work demonstrates a commitment to enhancing electronic devices through advanced manufacturing techniques. The impact of his inventions in the semiconductor industry continues to be felt, making him a notable figure in the world of inventions and innovations.