SI
SI
discoversearch

We've detected that you're using an ad content blocking browser plug-in or feature. Ads provide a critical source of revenue to the continued operation of Silicon Investor.  We ask that you disable ad blocking while on Silicon Investor in the best interests of our community.  If you are not using an ad blocker but are still receiving this message, make sure your browser's tracking protection is set to the 'standard' level.
Technology Stocks : General Lithography
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  
To: Yousef who wrote (355)5/22/1997 10:07:00 PM
From: Andrew Vance   of 1305
 
Yousef-what is your take on the patent issue relative to the step and scan systems for the 193nm and below systems. My understanding is that ISI owns the patent and that SVGL has been given permission to utilize it in the Micrascan system. I also understand that ISI will prosecute others that try to infringe on its patent.

Admittedly, I have not been following this for awhile so I am curious if you have any insight into this matter.

Your R&D comment concerning the ISI system is quite accurate. It is an excellent tool and will give a step up for those like SEMATECH. The system is capable of being a production tool but the size of ISI prevents them from filling any large orders that might come from the likes of an IBM or INTC. Even SVGL was forced to expand its manufacturing capability for the Micrascan recently because they realize orders from 3 majors like IBM, INTC and one other could consume all their production capacity.

Unfortunately the real problem, as I see it, is that the Japanese companies (Nikon and Canon) have much more manufacturing capacity for steppers than almost all the US vendors and ASMLF together. Rough figures have Nikon and Canon capable of 500+ systems each with ASMLF next at under 300 and SVGL maybe in the 200 range. I think quality is not much of an issue these days in steppers since all available systems are highly reliable. I think the ability to ship quantity is where the Nikons and Canons kick our collective butts.

Andrew
Report TOU ViolationShare This Post
 Public ReplyPrvt ReplyMark as Last ReadFilePrevious 10Next 10PreviousNext  

HomeMailHotSubjectMarksPeopleMarksKeepersSettings
Terms Of UseContact UsCopyright/IP PolicyPrivacy PolicyAbout UsFAQAdvertise on SI
© 2025 Knight Sac Media.  Data provided by Twelve Data, Alpha Vantage, and CityFALCON News