Correlation between latent interface trap buildup and 1/f noise in metal-oxide-semiconductor transistors

A long-term delayed increase in the 1/f noise of p-channel metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) transistors is observed in devices that show significant latent interface-trap buildup after exposure to ionizing radiation. During positive-bias postirradiation anneal, the noise increases by more than an order of magnitude above the level observed after irradiation. The increase in noise precedes the latent buildup of interface traps by at least 4.5 days during room-temperature annealing, and by similar to 1 h during 100 degrees C annealing. The time and temperature dependencies of the increases in noise and interface trap buildup are consistent with the thermally activated motion of protons into the near-interfacial region of the oxide, followed by increases in border trap and interface trap densities. These results suggest hydrogen-related species can significantly affect the 1/f noise of MOS devices. (C) 1997 American Institute of Physics.