Basic Limitations in Microcircuit Fabrication Technology

Abstract

This report presents the findings of a 6-month study undertaken for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency to ascertain what, if any, research ARPA might sensibly conduct in integrated microcircuit technology. The authors entered upon the study through a conviction that serious international competition in this technology may appear in the next few years, and a desire to ensure for the United States as favorable an opportunity to meet this competition as research can make available. Both the ubiquitous nature of micro-electronics in defense applications and the particularly severe special defense requirements for complex, low-power, micro-miniaturized circuitry make a commanding lead in this technology very important. The authors wished to assure themselves and ARPA that the existing research programs provide adequately for the forthcoming needs of the nation. The report details some high-leverage research areas, not now receiving government or private support, where relatively small, advanced research efforts may have substantial payoff. No endorsement of the study conclusions by ARPA is implied or intended.