A Quantitative Theory of the Electro-Formation of Metal-Germanium Point Contacts†

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Abstract
It is shown conclusively that a high source impedence is necessary for the attainment of highly reproducible results, and that a uni-directional pulse having a particular minimum duration is optimum. Further control on the results of forming is achieved by adjustment of the transient conditions. A quantitative calculation of the three-dimensional temperature distribution during forming is given without preposterous assumptions. A detailed computation of the thermal acceptor-density distribution is also provided from which, together with estimates of other effects, an intimate quantitative picture of the resultant structure under the point can be derived. The calculated quantities agree within about 40% with practice, and more accurate calculations could be made by extension and elaboration of the theory, but this is not considered to be justifiable. One interesting outcome is that the diameter of contact must not exceed π × 10−4 in. per ampere of forming current if good and controlled characteristics are desired.

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