November 30, 2004 – KLA-Tencor and Dainippon Screen Manufacturing Co. Ltd. have announced they are partnering to commercialize advanced process solutions designed to address key manufacturing challenges associated with next-generation semiconductor devices.
This partnership involves Blue29, a Silicon Valley start-up that has developed an innovative electroless film deposition technology for copper interconnects. Originally a KLA-Tencor venture capital investment, Blue29 has now become a wholly-owned joint venture between KLA-Tencor and Dainippon Screen.
Under terms of the joint venture, Dainippon Screen will provide a system embodying Blue29’s technology that meets customer production requirements. KLA-Tencor will be responsible for global sales, distribution, and support.