Method for detecting end point of plasma etching, and plasma etching apparatus

摘要

Certain embodiments provide a plasma etching apparatus and a method for detecting the end point of plasma etching, which can more accurately detect the end point of plasma etching. A radiofrequency wave generated in a radiofrequency generating system 5 propagates through a lead line 30 and is applied to a cathode 9 in a plasma chamber 1. Plasma 11 thereby is generated in the plasma chamber and selectively etches a semiconductor wafer 12. A RF probe 8 measures the voltage and current of the radiofrequency wave flowing in the lead line 30. A determination system 15 may determine the end point of the plasma etching on the basis of either the voltage or current, whichever changes first.