A method and system for detecting and locating defects in an integrated circuit.
A time-varying input signal is applied to the integrated circuit, power signals
produced at a plurality of respective ordered connections in response to the input
signal are measured, and one or more defects in the integrated circuit are identified
from the power signals so measured. A system is provided having a probe for connecting
to the die of an integrated circuit prior to final packaging, a testing system
for applying transient input signals to the die and acquiring die power signal
measurements in response thereto, and a data processor for determining whether
the power signal measurements indicate the presence of a defect in the die. Also
provided is a method for reducing the effect of contact resistance from test probe
connections. As a way of implementing the approach of the method and system there
is also provided an integrated circuit having a plurality of ordered connections
to the power grid and a plurality of calibration circuits associated with respective
ordered connections so as to selectively inject transient signals onto the power
grid at respective locations.