August 27, 2012 – SEMI has created a new information portal to offer news and perspectives about the 450mm wafer-size transition.
The "450 Central" Web-based information service compiles industry news, technology information, new product announcements, SEMI Standards updates, presentations, and other relevant information on 450mm wafer processing.
The transition to using 450mm wafers is one of the semiconductor industry’s most challenging and complex issues, and consortium efforts are underway in both the US and Europe. But that also means semiconductor equipment suppliers need to update their existing 300mm tools, or devise new versions, to handle the bigger wafers which have some special needs in handling and processing. And that means lots of investments: SEMI projects anywhere from $8B to $40B for 450mm R&D, and $25B in capital expenses for first-generation high-volume manufacturing equipment due by 2016-2017. Still, the biggest chipmakers see it as their next major cost-saving implementation — perhaps as much as 30% — so everyone agrees 450mm is necessary and inevitable.
"Robust communication throughout the supply chain is essential for a cost-effective wafer size transition," stated Jonathan Davis, president of the semiconductor business for SEMI. "450 Central provides the necessary link for accurate information for buyers, planners, suppliers, investors, and other key stakeholders in next generation wafer processing."
SEMI says it will work with all IDMs, industry consortia, and suppliers to populate 450mm Central with accurate and timely information. To have your new product, perspective, or other information considered for inclusion, send an email (with Word doc and graphic) to [email protected].