Appeal 2006-3363
Application 10/873,363
INVENTION
The invention is directed to a method of making magneto-resistive bits
where the bits are protected against later process steps that could damage
unprotected bits. The method provides protection by encapsulating the bit with a
etch stop barrier to cover the top and side walls of the bit. See page 3 of
Appellants’ Specification. Claim 1 is representative of the invention and
reproduced below:
1. A passivated magneto-resistive bit structure, comprising:
a magneto-resistive bit having a top surface and side walls;
a conductive etch stop barrier layer encapsulating the top surface and
side walls of said bit; and
a metal contact provided upon at least part of said etch stop barrier
layer.
REFERENCE
The reference relied upon by the Examiner is:
Tehrani US 5,861,328 Jan. 19, 1999
REJECTION AT ISSUE
Claims 1 through 6 stand rejected under 35 U.S.C. § 102(b) as being
anticipated by Tehrani. The Examiner’s rejection is set forth on page 4 of the
Answer.
Throughout the opinion, we make reference to the Brief and Reply Brief
(filed March 3, 2006 and June 6, 2006 respectively), and the Answer (mailed April
6, 2006) for the respective details thereof.
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