(April 18, 2005) San Jose, Calif. &#8212 SEMI and the Silicon Integration Initiative (Si2; Austin, Texas), have agreed to partner in order to bring up the increasing cost and complexities associated with design for manufacturability (DFM). Designers, manufacturers, and technology providers increasingly need to collaborate in addressing the difficulties of manufacturing, according to both organizations.

(April 19, 2005) San Diego, Calif. &#8212 KIC has recently promoted Marybeth (MB) Allen to the position of General Manager – Europe, in which she will develop the KIC thermal-process products market throughout Europe. Lead-free conversion is driving European manufacturers to improve their thermal processes; therefore, the European market is seeking new tools, such as KIC’s profilers and process optimization and control tools. Heading this initiative, Allen will serve as a front-line customer interface while communicating sales, operations, and R&D agendas. She will also coordinate internal and external technology seminars, as well as provide a range of tools and services to customers and KIC sales personnel.