Time step truncation in direct simulation Monte Carlo for semiconductors

Abstract

Purpose

To provide an accurate analysis of the systematic error introduced by the constant time technique free flight mechanism, due to the choice of the time step and number particles.

Design/methodology/approach

A homogeneous (bulk) silicon semiconductor is studied by using direct simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC).

Findings

The systematic error turns out to be of the first order with respect to the time step. The efficiency of the method is tackled.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis is limited to the bulk case. Future researches will consider non homogeneous devices

Originality/value

An accurate analysis of an “old” free flight mechanism has been performed, and its limits have been stated.

Citation

Muscato, O. and Wagner, W. (2005), "Time step truncation in direct simulation Monte Carlo for semiconductors", COMPEL - The international journal for computation and mathematics in electrical and electronic engineering, Vol. 24 No. 4, pp. 1351-1366. https://doi.org/10.1108/03321640510615652