A method for preparing TEM sample, comprising the following steps:
providing a sample with two pits and a failure region between the two
pits, the failure region comprising a semiconductor device; milling the
first surface of the failure region, till the cross section of the
semiconductor device is exposed; etching the first surface of the failure
region; cleaning the sample; milling the second surface of the failure
region, till the failure region can be passed by electron beam. A sample
can be prepared for a high resolution TEM through above steps. When the
sample is observed, it is easy to distinguish the lightly doped drain,
source/drain regions from the silicon substrate and observe the pattern
and defects in the lightly doped drain, source/drain regions clearly; in
addition, it is easy to distinguish the BPSG from the non-doped silicon
dioxide in the failure region.