In a shadow mask vapor deposition system, a first conductor is vapor deposited on a substrate and an insulator is vapor deposited on the first conductor. A second conductor is then vapor deposited on at least the insulator. The insulator layer is plasma etched either before or after the vapor deposition of the second conductor to define in the insulator layer a via hole through which at least a portion of the first conductor is exposed. An electrical connection is established between the first and second conductors by way of the via hole.
