A lithographic mask is illuminated with light from different directions
such that intensities of a plurality of incident beams of light provide a
largest possible integrated process window defined in terms of an allowed
range for defining shapes. Constrained sets of intensity parameters are
imposed. A first set of intensity parameters represents maximum possible
intensities that can be permitted for overexposed tolerance positions. A
second set of intensity parameters represents minimum possible
intensities that can be permitted for underexposed tolerance positions.
Optimum source intensities of incident beams are defined using a linear
program and constraints. The optimum source intensities maximize an
integrated range of dose and focal variations without causing printed
shapes to depart from the allowed range. Apparatus are detailed and
variations are described.