Aug. 5–CHELMSFORD, MA–Brooks-PRI Automation, Inc., a maker semiconductor manufacturing automation, has been selected by chipmaker Macronix International Co. Ltd., a Taiwan-based nonvolatile memory maker, to outfit a 200 mm production line and a 300 mm test line in its Fab 3 facility.

Macronix has selected Brooks-PRI’s Automated Material Handling System (AMHS) ? including stockers, AeroTrak and AeroLoader overhead hoist transport vehicles and TransNet material control software.

This is Brooks-PRI’s second AMHS win since the company was formed in May 14 as a result of Brooks Automation’s acquisition of PRI Automation. The first was Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp. It is also Brooks-PRI’s second 300 mm project.

Macronix’s strategy of initiating a 300 mm test line within a 200 mm production fab is common in Asia, and can help semiconductor manufacturers gain valuable experience that can ease their transition to 300 mm, says Robert J. Therrien, president and CEO of Brooks-PRI

“We are very pleased to have won our second AMHS deal in the past 10 weeks, especially in the competitive landscape of Taiwan, which we view as a key market for us,” Therrien adds. “These wins are a terrific vote of confidence from our customers.”