Santa Clara — Nov. 17, 2000 — Applied Materials ended its fourth quarter with an all-time record $2.92 billion, in what company officials are heralding as the beginning of a new era.

The Santa Clara-based company saw orders rise 10 percent t $3.6 billion in the fourth quarter, which ended October 29, which represents an 81 percent increase over fourth quarter 1999's $ 1.61 billion.

“In the coming year, we expect out customers to increase their investment in advanced technologies for smaller linewidths, 300 mm product capabilities and advanced materials applications,” said Applied Chairman and CEO James Morgan, who added the industry has entered the 'Information Age.'

In 2001, many analysts expect the industry will spend between $6 billion and $ 8 billion on 300 mm fabs, tooling and equipment.

–Jeff VanPelt