Semiconductor device modeling

In this review paper we describe a hierarchy of simulation models for modeling state of the art devices. Within the semiclassical simulation arena, emphasis is placed on particle-based device simulations that can model devices operating from diffusive down to ballistic regime. In here, we also describe in detail the proper inclusion of the short-range Coulomb interactions using real-space approach that eliminates double-counting of the Coulomb interaction (due to its partial inclusion via the solution of the Poisson equation). Regarding the quantum transport approaches, emphasis is placed on the description of the CBR method that is implemented in ASU's 2D and 3D NEGF device simulator (that is used for modeling 10 nm gate length FinFETs, which are likely to be the next generation of devices that the Industry will be mass-producing in year 2015). Comparison with existing experimental data is presented to verify the accuracy and speed of the quantum transport simulator. We conclude this review paper by emphasizing what kind of semiconductor tools will be needed to model next generation devices.