Stabilization of germanium alloy junction transistor characteristics through surface treatment

Experiments directed towards improved stabilization of the characteristics of germanium alloy junction trandstors have emphasized. in the past, the "environmental" phase of device reliability. The selection of the best possible atmosphere and the development of suitable envelopes for the transistor element were the primary objectives of this early work. A critical review of investigations intended to reveal the effects of environment indicates, however, that suitable atmospheres and seals do not alone assure a reliable device performance. Further, these experiments suggest that additional improvements in device reliability may be derived by adjustments in the final surface treatment given the transistor immediately prior to envelope closure.