The present invention discloses a TFT array substrate that is fabricated
using a four-mask process and a method of manufacturing that TFT array
substrate. The gate line and gate electrode of the array substrate is
surrounded by the metallic oxide after finishing a first mask process
using thermal treatment. As a result, the gate line and gate electrode
are not eroded and damaged by the etchant and stripper during a fourth
mask process. Further, buffering layer can optionally be formed between
the substrate and the gate line and gate electrode. Thus, silicon ions
and oxygen ions included in the substrate are not diffused into the gate
line and electrode. Accordingly, the line defect such as a line open of
the gate line and gate electrode is prevented, thereby preventing
inferior goods while increasing the manufacturing yield.