OCT. 15–ITHACA, NY–Kionix, Inc., a developer of micro electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology, has been selected by Eastman Kodak Co. to provide micro-machining services, namely the etching of ultra-fine patterns into silicon wafers, for the film maker’s own MEMS development efforts.

“We conducted a thorough search for rapid-response process support, and Kionix stood out with their process capabilities, equipment reliability, and quick turnaround — including the development of new processes,” says Jan Nedelka, Kodak’s fab manager. “The development of the latest info-imaging technology demands our vendors respond as rapidly as we innovate, and we expect Kionix to meet those requirements.”

Kionix completed construction of its new facility earlier this year. The 40,000-square-foot plant, located in the Cornell University Business and Technology Park, was designed for high-volume manufacture of silicon micro-devices.

The facility includes a 5,000-square-foot ISO Class 6 manufacturing cleanroom with integrated ISO Class 5 photolithography space, and a 5,000-square-foot ISO Class 7 assembly and testing area.

The equipment includes state process systems supplied by Applied Materials, Inc., Ultratech Stepper, Inc., and other quality vendors.

“Of course, we are pleased and honored by Kodak’s selection of Kionix to support its advanced development work in our field,” says Greg Galvin, founder and chief executive of Kionix. “Our goal is to be a world leader in the design and manufacture of quality silicon MEMS devices. We have assembled outstanding facilities, staff, and intellectual property to meet that goal.”