SUSS MicroTec, a leading
supplier of process and test solutions for the semiconductor industry and related
markets, and SEMATECH, a global consortium of chipmakers, announced today that
SUSS MicroTec will join the Front End Processes (FEP) program of SEMATECH. As
a member of the program, SUSS MicroTec will collaborate with SEMATECH's
FEP device and reliability experts to investigate complex semiconductor probing
and measurement solutions for next-generation semiconductor and emerging technologies.
To enable advances in conventional and emerging semiconductor devices, SEMATECH's
FEP program is researching cutting-edge new materials and device structures.
The collaborative work between SUSS MicroTec and SEMATECH's FEP research
teams will aim to develop new characterization techniques to enable both CMOS
scaling and emerging technologies beyond CMOS. Additionally, as a part of this
joint effort, advanced emerging memory and MEMS/NEMS technology characterization
methods will also be addressed. SEMATECH will use SUSS MicroTec's probe
system and control software to characterize new device processes and designs.
"We are excited to be a part of the SEMATECH FEP program, working with
the most advanced technologists to develop and characterize new materials and
tools for the continued improvement of semiconductor technologies," said
Frank P. Averdung, President and CEO of SUSS MicroTec. "This collaboration
represents an innovative blend of SUSS' experience in test solutions for
probing and characterization applications and SEMATECH's strengths in
the development of fundamental materials and advanced device technologies."
"This joint research initiative with SUSS MicroTec reinforces SEMATECH's
commitment to develop practical solutions for leading-edge technologies that
are increasingly relying on new materials and structures for continued performance
improvement," said Raj Jammy, vice president of emerging technologies,
SEMATECH. "We look forward to working with SUSS MicroTec as an industry
key player on innovative ways to characterize and evaluate new materials and
processes, that will benefit our members and the industry."