Systems, methods and mediums are provided for dynamic adjustment of
sampling plans in connection with a wafer (or other device) to be
measured. A sampling plan provides information on specific measure points
within a die, a die being the section on the wafer that will eventually
become a single chip after processing. There are specified points within
the die that are candidates for measuring. The stored die map information
may be retrieved and translated to determine the available points for
measurement on the wafer.The invention adjusts the frequency and/or
spatial resolution of measurements when one or more events occur that are
likely to indicate an internal or external change affecting the
manufacturing process or results. The increase in measurements and
possible corresponding decrease in processing occur on an as-needed
basis. The dynamic metrology plan adjusts the spatial resolution of
sampling within-wafer by adding, subtracting or replacing candidate
points from the sampling plan, in response to certain events which
suggest that additional or different measurements of the wafer may be
desirable. Where there are provided a number of candidate points in the
die map in the area to which points are to be added, subtracted, or
replaced, the system can select among the points. Further, the invention
may be used in connection with adjusting the frequency of wafer-to-wafer
measurements.