Intel takes lead-free stand

April 7, 2004 – Starting later this year, Intel Corp. will eliminate approximately 95% of the lead used in its processors and chipsets, the company announced.

Intel, which already uses lead-free flash memory components, plans to ship the lead-free technology with embedded IA processors in 2Q04, and select microprocessors and chipsets in 3Q04. Additional products will be transitioned “as manufacturers become able to handle them,” Intel said in a statement.

The new packages use lead-free solder balls, representing the majority of lead used in the company’s packaging; Intel is looking for a replacement for the tiny amount of lead it said is needed to connect the silicon core to the package.

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