ASSY,CATHODE, 200MM REV2, EMAX (Exclude ESC)

PART DETAILS

0010-06573 0010-06572
ASSY,CATHODE, 200MM REV2, EMAX (Exclude ESC)

OEM P/N: 

0010-06573 0010-06572

ESCT P/N: 

ES1011-023

PART TYPE:

2nd NEW

OEM: 

AMAT
MORE INFO

0010-06573 / 0010-06572 Cathode assembly for Applied Materials systems

200mm Cathode assembly for plasma etch and deposition, Applied Materials EMAX platforms (ESC excluded)

The 0010-06573 / 0010-06572 Cathode Assembly (200mm REV2, EMAX) is a critical plasma-facing electrode component used within Applied Materials semiconductor processing systems. Designed for 200mm wafer platforms, this cathode assembly provides the electrical interface required for plasma generation and wafer processing.

As the powered electrode within the chamber, the cathode plays a central role in establishing the electric field that sustains plasma. This assembly is supplied excluding the electrostatic chuck (ESC), allowing integration with compatible ESC configurations while maintaining core cathode functionality.

Functional role within Applied Materials systems

The cathode assembly functions as a primary plasma-generating electrode within the process chamber.

Core functions include:

  • Delivering RF or DC power into the chamber to generate plasma
  • Establishing the electric field for ion acceleration and process control
  • Supporting wafer processing through controlled plasma interaction
  • Providing a stable platform for ESC integration (when applicable)
  • Enabling uniform etch or deposition across 200mm wafers

The assembly operates alongside RF generators, matching networks, ESCs, gas delivery systems, and chamber hardware.

Design and performance characteristics

Plasma generation and electrical performance

The cathode is central to plasma stability and process accuracy.

Key characteristics include:

  • Efficient coupling of RF energy into the plasma
  • Stable electric field distribution across the wafer surface
  • Consistent plasma density for uniform processing
  • Reliable performance across varying process conditions

Mechanical integration and structure

The assembly supports both electrical and mechanical stability.

Performance features include:

  • Precision-machined surfaces for accurate alignment
  • Structural integrity under thermal and electrical loads
  • Designed for integration with 200mm wafer platforms
  • Compatibility with ESC mounting configurations (ESC excluded)

Thermal management and process stability

The cathode experiences substantial thermal and plasma exposure.

Durability features include:

  • Materials designed for high-temperature plasma environments
  • Stable thermal performance under continuous operation
  • Resistance to thermal cycling and mechanical stress
  • Maintains performance across extended production runs

Impact on process performance, yield, and tool uptime

The 0010-06573 / 0010-06572 cathode assembly directly impacts plasma behaviour and process results.

Potential impacts of degradation or failure include:

  • Plasma instability affecting etch or deposition uniformity
  • Non-uniform wafer processing
  • Reduced control over ion energy and process parameters
  • Increased defect rates and yield loss
  • Increased RF mismatch or system alarms
  • Unplanned downtime due to electrode failure

Replacing a degraded cathode restores plasma stability and process consistency.

Common failure modes and diagnostic indicators

Surface erosion and plasma damage

Continuous plasma exposure degrades the electrode surface.

Indicators include:

  • Surface erosion or pitting
  • Changes in electrical characteristics
  • Reduced plasma uniformity
  • Process drift over time

Thermal degradation

High temperatures impact structural integrity.

Symptoms include:

  • Warping or dimensional changes
  • Reduced thermal efficiency
  • Increased process variability

Electrical performance degradation

Changes in conductivity or contact quality affect operation.

Indicators include:

  • Increased RF mismatch or reflected power
  • Unstable plasma behaviour
  • Increased system alarms

Interface and integration issues

Mechanical or electrical interfaces may degrade.

Symptoms include:

  • Poor contact with ESC or mounting surfaces
  • Alignment issues
  • Inconsistent system performance

Installation and maintenance best practices

For best performance:

  • Handle using strict cleanroom procedures
  • Inspect for surface wear, erosion, or contamination
  • Verify compatibility with ESC and chamber configuration
  • Check alignment and secure the installation
  • Perform RF tuning and system validation after installation
  • Conduct chamber seasoning before production use
  • Monitor plasma stability and process performance trends

OEM part number and compatibility

The 0010-06573 / 0010-06572 are Applied Materials OEM cathode assemblies for 200mm systems.

Key considerations:

  • Designed for EMAX platform configurations
  • Supplied without ESC (must be paired with compatible ESC)
  • Must match chamber geometry and electrical specifications
  • Always verify tool model and configuration before replacement

Why source from ESCT Fab Support

ESCT advantages

  • OEM-aligned inspection and dimensional verification
  • Cleanroom-compliant handling and packaging
  • Verified compatibility with Applied Materials systems
  • Faster availability vs OEM lead times
  • Reduced Mean Time To Repair (MTTR)
  • Expertise in plasma-facing hardware and electrode assemblies

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the function of the cathode in the process chamber?

It serves as the powered electrode that couples RF energy into the chamber, establishing and sustaining the plasma. It directly defines plasma density, ion energy distribution, and sheath characteristics critical to etch or deposition performance.

2. What does “exclude ESC” indicate for this assembly?

The electrostatic chuck (ESC) is not included. The cathode is supplied as a standalone electrode assembly and must be integrated with a compatible ESC where required.

3. How does cathode condition impact process performance?

Cathode surface condition and electrical integrity influence plasma uniformity and stability. Erosion, coating buildup, or electrical degradation can cause non-uniform ion distribution, process drift, and reduced repeatability.

4. What are the early indicators of cathode degradation?

Signs include unstable plasma, increased RF mismatch or reflected power, visible surface erosion or pitting, abnormal chamber seasoning behavior, and gradual shifts in process results.

5. Can a worn cathode remain in operation temporarily?

It may continue to function, but with degraded plasma control. This increases the risk of non-uniform processing, defect generation, and tighter process margins.

6. How critical is alignment and installation accuracy?

Critical. Improper seating, tilt, or interface issues can distort the electric field, leading to uneven plasma distribution, localized over-processing, and accelerated wear.

7. Can the assembly be verified prior to shipment?

Yes. Inspection can include dimensional checks, surface condition assessment, and interface compatibility verification to confirm readiness for installation.

8. What determines cathode replacement frequency?

Replacement is driven by process conditions such as RF power levels, gas chemistry, duty cycles, and erosion rates. Monitoring RF stability, endpoint trends, and chamber performance typically informs replacement timing.

9. Can cathode-related issues affect other subsystems?

Yes. Plasma instability can propagate to RF generators, matching networks, ESC performance, and process control systems, affecting overall tool stability.

10. What are the risks of using an incorrect cathode configuration?

Mismatched geometry or electrical characteristics can disrupt impedance matching and plasma distribution, resulting in unstable operation, poor process uniformity, and potential system faults.

Summary

The 0010-06573 / 0010-06572 Cathode Assembly (200mm REV2, EMAX) is a mission-critical plasma-facing electrode within Applied Materials systems, responsible for generating and controlling plasma used in semiconductor processing. Its performance directly impacts process uniformity, yield, and system stability.

Sourcing through ESCT Fab Support gets you verified compatibility, faster availability, and reliable performance, helping maintain stable plasma conditions and consistent semiconductor manufacturing results.

Disclaimer: This part is supplied by ESCT Fab Support as a new, OEM-compatible second-source component, verified to the form, fit and function of Applied Materials part number 0010-06573 0010-06572. It is not an original OEM part and is not sold as one. It is not manufactured by, endorsed by, or affiliated with Applied Materials, and all manufacturer names and part numbers are quoted for identification and compatibility purposes only.

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