Looks like the Berkeley acquisition was an astute judgement by BRKS...
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Berkeley Delivers Autocalibration(R) Technology-Enabled Direct Drive Robot To Major Semiconductor OEM
prnews
RICHMOND, Calif., Oct. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- Berkeley Process Control, Inc.(Berkeley) announced today that it has delivered its patented Autocalibration(R) technology integrated with a major semiconductor equipment OEM's preferred direct drive wafer-handling robot. This is Berkeley's first integration of the particular state-of-the-art robot.
Autocalibration technology improves semiconductor fab equipment productivity by automating critical robot calibration processes that are conventionally performed by technicians using time-consuming and subjective manual methods. Calibration that previously required many hours is reduced to just minutes -- substantially reducing costly production downtime.
Subjectivity is eliminated, resulting in highly repeatable calibration, improved tool reliability, and reduced risk of damage to valuable semiconductor wafers.
State-of-the-art direct drive wafer-handling robots demonstrate better performance and reliability than their predecessors. They are, however, commonly delivered with controllers incapable of Autocalibration technology.
Recently, key OEMs and end-users have begun to drive the marriage of best-of-class controls and robot technologies to improve fab tool productivity and performance.
Berkeley's integration of its flexible BX2 motion-and-machine controller with the OEM's chosen robot provided "drop-in replacement" ease of adoption.
No changes to the OEM's tool control architecture or host software were required. The addition of a single host command enabled host initiation of the Autocalibration sequence.
About Berkeley Process Control: On September 19, 2002 Brooks-PRI Automation, Inc. (Nasdaq: BRKS) announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Berkeley Process Control, Inc., and that the transaction is expected to close by calendar year end.
Berkeley Process Control, Inc., Richmond California, a privately held company founded in 1981, is the leading supplier of advanced automated motion-and-machine control solutions for critical manufacturing processes used in the optical fiber, semiconductor, and packaging industries. Berkeley's comprehensive and unique approach to automation enables faster time to market, greater machine productivity, and seamless integrity for original equipment manufacturers. |
