Texas Instruments Incorporated
MICROELECTROMECHANICAL SYSTEM (MEMS) DEVICE WITH BACKSIDE PINHOLE RELEASE AND RE-SEAL

Abstract:

A device includes a substrate having first and second layers and an insulator layer between the first and second layers. A microelectromechanical system (MEMS) structure is provide on a portion of the second layer. A trench is formed in the second layer and around at least a part of a periphery of the portion of the second layer. An undercut is formed in the insulator layer and adjacent to the portion of the second layer. The undercut separates the portion of the second layer from the first layer. First and second pinholes extend from a plane of the insulator layer and in the first layer. The first and second pinholes are in fluid communication with the undercut and the trench.