What is Flexfet?
A. Flexfet is an advanced CMOS process characterized by an Independently Double Gated transistor. The novel design of the Flexfet transistor brings many benefits not realized in standard CMOS processes. Flexfet enables Dynamic Threshold Control (DTC), enabling threshold voltage (Vt) to be controlled on-the-fly. Additionally, Flexfet enables Ultra Low Power (ULP) operation, with Flexfet ULP running at or below 0.5V, fully depleted. Flexfet is a gate-last process, which enables integration of novel materials with low thermal budgets. The unique IDG design and SOI processing of Flexfet create an inherent radiation tolerance, which is extremely useful in avionics and space systems. Flexfet is commercially available as a foundry process from American Semiconductor with standard Process Development Kits available for 180nm and 130nm nodes, and the Radiation Effects Process Development Kit (RE-PDK) in development with support from Air Force Research Labs SHARE program.
