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227-0377-00L 3 Credits MSC D-ITET , D-MAVT

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Physics of Failure and Failure Analysis of Electronic Devices and Equipment

Physik der Ausfälle und Ausfallanalyse elektronischer Schaltungen

Lecturers & Examiners: Dr. Urs Sennhauser

VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:24:14

Abstract

Failures have to be avoided by proper design, material selection and manufacturing. Properties, degradation mechanisms, and expected lifetime of materials are introduced and the basics of failure analysis and analysis equipment are presented. Failures will be demonstrated experimentally and the opportunity is offered to perform a failure analysis with advanced equipment in the laboratory.

Objective

Introduction to the degradation and failure mechanisms and causes of electronic components, devices and systems as well as to methods and tools of reliability testing, characterization and failure analysis.

Content

Summary of reliability and failure analysis terminology; physics of failure: materials properties, physical processes and failure mechanisms; failure analysis of ICs, PCBs, opto-electronics, discrete and other components and devices; basics and properties of instruments; application in circuit design and reliability analysis

Resources

Lecture Notes

Comprehensive copy of transparencies

General Information

Language: German
Levels: MSC
Frequency: Yearly recurring

Examination

Type: session examination
Mode: oral 30 minutes

Course Components

Type	Title	Time & Place	Hours
lecture	Physik der Ausfälle und Ausfallanalyse elektronischer Schaltungen	Thu 13:15-15:00 (ETZ E 7)	2 h weekly

Offered In

Mechanical Engineering Master
- Core Courses
  - Micro & Nano Systems and Processes
Micro- and Nanosystems Master
- Core Courses
  - Elective Core Courses (To be discussed with the tutor.)
Electrical Engineering and Information Technology Master
- Majors
  - Communication (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Program. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
  - Computer and Networking (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Program. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
  - Micro- and Optoelectronics (A total of 42 CP must be achieved during the Master Program. The individual study plan is subject to the tutor's approval.)
    - Recommended Subjects (These courses are recommended, but you are free to choose courses from any other special field. Please consult your tutor.)
  - Electives for all specialisations