A new approach to capacitance transient analysis, based on the matrix penci
l (MP) method, is proposed for deep level transient spectroscopy (DLTS) (MP
-DLTS). The MP method offers the least statistical variance of the estimate
s in the presence of noise, Simulation tests have shown this method to lead
to a significant improvement in DLTS resolution even for low trap concentr
ations. Its noise sensitivity and resolution are quantified and compared wi
th five different DLTS analysis techniques. The MP-DLTS method is found to
outperform both DLTS spectrum and direct transient analysis techniques. An
experimental investigation of the electrically active defects induced by a
germanium preamorphization step prior to dopant implantation was undertaken
using the MP-DLTS method. Two electron traps were detected in all samples
and characterized.