http://www.solid-state.com en-us Copyright 2008, PennWell Corporation Thu, 20 Nov 2008 21:04:25 GMT Thu, 20 Nov 2008 21:04:25 GMT rssEditor@pennwell.com (RSS Editor) webmaster@pennwell.com (Webmaster) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/345707/5/ONART/none/APPLI/On-display:-Tech,-strategy,-glimpses-at-FPDI?dcmp=rss Among the high-level takeaways from the recent FPDI displays event in Japan: Digital signage looks like the next "big" near-term market, Hollywood is pinning hopes on 3D technology, LCD TVs continue to improve thanks to backlight technology; and newer technologies (OLEDs, e-inks, R2R) are progressing but not yet ready. Tue, 18 Nov 2008 16:14:57 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/345707/5/ONART/none/APPLI/On-display:-Tech,-strategy,-glimpses-at-FPDI?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/344392/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Analysts:-LCD-tool-spending-dips,-2009-outlook-unclear?dcmp=rss Manufacturing output for TFT-LCD displays is expected to hit record highs in 2008, but look for spending to fall off a cliff in 2009, according to separate analyst reports. Tue, 04 Nov 2008 05:33:57 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/344392/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Analysts:-LCD-tool-spending-dips,-2009-outlook-unclear?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/343671/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC-research-energetically-stacks-up?dcmp=rss Advanced Packaging's Gail Flower reports from presentations at IMEC's recent annual research review, centering on two areas of predicted high growth: 3D stacked ICs including through-silicon vias (TSV), and crystalline Si and organic solar cells. Mon, 27 Oct 2008 21:22:51 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/343671/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC-research-energetically-stacks-up?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/343417/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Vacuum-processing-for-solar-cells?dcmp=rss Like integrated circuit and flat-panel display manufacturing, solar cell manufacturing depends on a variety of vacuum-based processes, from PECVD silicon deposition to lamination of the finished module. Yet vacuum-based processes in solar cell manufacturing pose special challenges for pump designers. Thu, 23 Oct 2008 22:01:06 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/343417/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Vacuum-processing-for-solar-cells?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/343415/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Improved-efficiency-boosts-PV-panel-prospects?dcmp=rss Just as integrated circuit (IC) manufacturers strive to reduce gate length and increase memory density, solar cell manufacturers seek to improve conversion efficiency. More efficient panels reduce the user's cost and make solar cells more competitive with other energy sources. Yet essentially every aspect of cell design affects efficiency, from the depth of the p-n junction to the composition of the protective glass sheet. This article summarizes the most important contributing factors. Thu, 23 Oct 2008 21:48:46 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/343415/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Improved-efficiency-boosts-PV-panel-prospects?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342827/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Navigant,-Gartner,-Displaybank-experts-shed-light-on-solar/PV-tec?dcmp=rss Recent industry events have provided a forum for analysts to opine on the future of PV technology, both thin-film and crystalline. Experts gave further analysis and opinions to SST. Thu, 16 Oct 2008 18:13:19 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342827/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Navigant,-Gartner,-Displaybank-experts-shed-light-on-solar/PV-tec?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342744/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Advent-Solar-brings-semi-tech-to-PV?dcmp=rss Advent Solar execs, on hand at this week's Solar Power International event in San Diego, discuss the upcoming (1Q09) launch of their first product targeting PV that utilizes advanced semiconductor technology, including epi-filled TSVs and the equivalent of wafer-level packaging, and reduces efficiency loss as well as lowers cell processing and interconnect costs. Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:38:10 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342744/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Advent-Solar-brings-semi-tech-to-PV?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342090/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC-touts-optical-links-in-flexible-substrate?dcmp=rss European R&D consortium IMEC says it has made first functional optical links embedded in a flexible substrate, paving the way toward optical sensing foils for use in monitoring irregular or moving surfaces. Thu, 09 Oct 2008 03:15:07 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342090/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC-touts-optical-links-in-flexible-substrate?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342089/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Samsung,-LG-to-roll-out-LCD-steppers?dcmp=rss In further efforts to cut production costs, and reduce reliance upon foreign technology providers, Korea's top two electronics manufacturers reportedly are in early stages of collaboration on development of steppers for LCD panel manufacturing. Thu, 09 Oct 2008 02:08:01 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342089/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Samsung,-LG-to-roll-out-LCD-steppers?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342005/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Grid-parity-entering-"inflection-zone"?dcmp=rss Applied Materials sees a "zone of inflection" starting around 2011-2015 during which time the levelized cost of energy from PV technologies will start to equal and then go lower than conventional electricity rates, in a presentation of the company's PV technology strategy at its recent technical symposium jointly sponsored with the IEEE SCV-EDS society. Wed, 08 Oct 2008 17:55:33 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/342005/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Grid-parity-entering-"inflection-zone"?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/341771/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Sharp-ramps-thin-film-solar-output?dcmp=rss Sharp Corp. says it has achieved mass production levels of 2nd-generation thin-film solar cells at its plant in Katsuragi, Nara Prefecture, to 160,000 kw/year, about 22% of its total overall production capacity (crystalline and thin-film) of 710,000 kw/year. The project encompassed roughly a ¥22B (US ~$208M) investment. Tue, 07 Oct 2008 03:00:07 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/341771/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Sharp-ramps-thin-film-solar-output?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/341708/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC,-Taiyo-Nippon-Sanso-collaborate-on-green-LEDs?dcmp=rss Oct. 6, 2008 -- European nanoelectronics research consortium IMEC and Japanese gases/equipment supplier Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corp. (TNSC) say they will jointly develop manufacturing technology for high-efficiency LED devices, TNSC's first such collaboration in Europe. Mon, 06 Oct 2008 17:52:56 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/341708/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC,-Taiyo-Nippon-Sanso-collaborate-on-green-LEDs?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/341467/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Solar-cell-JV-"risky"-for-Sanyo?dcmp=rss Sanyo Electric's proposed JV with Nippon Oil to make next-generation solar cells is a risky venture, according to local Japanese media, which claims that despite its solid technology the company is still in a rebuilding phase and battling aggressive competitors, while struggling to balance investment needs across its landscape. Fri, 03 Oct 2008 03:22:55 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/341467/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Solar-cell-JV-"risky"-for-Sanyo?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/341077/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Silicon-on-sapphire-market-to-surge-21-through-2012?dcmp=rss The sapphire substrate market will grow at a 21% annual clip through 2012 to top $400M, led by demand from LED makers now focused on Western markets where pricing remains stable, according to a report from Yole Développement. Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:25:37 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/341077/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Silicon-on-sapphire-market-to-surge-21-through-2012?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/340242/5/ONART/none/APPLI/PV's-"Moore's-Law"-required-to-drive-increased-material-efficienc?dcmp=rss The road to grid parity for PV power generation will be difficult, needing five or more years to compete with utility power, unsubsidized, on a large scale, noted analyst Mark Thirsk at a PV forecast luncheon. Host group SEMI also laid out its work giving a PV voice to the equipment and materials segment. Tue, 23 Sep 2008 00:56:51 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/340242/5/ONART/none/APPLI/PV's-"Moore's-Law"-required-to-drive-increased-material-efficienc?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/340034/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Germany-takes-a-bow-as-PV-market-leader?dcmp=rss At DisplayBank's 3rd annual San Jose Conference, Invest in Germany director Claus Habermeier showed why Germany's PV market is so formidable, thanks to proactive legislation. And Signet Solar's Keshav Prasad told SST how the company intends to improve on Applied Material's base technology. Fri, 19 Sep 2008 19:10:33 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/340034/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Germany-takes-a-bow-as-PV-market-leader?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/339588/5/ONART/none/APPLI/LG-eyeing-solar-inroads-through-EU's-Conergy?dcmp=rss Korean electronics conglomerate LG Electronics wants a piece of the solar pie, too -- and maybe a leg up on domestic rival Samsung. The company says it is negotiating a 75% stake in a solar module JV with German solar company Conergy AG, for a reported pricetag of $181M. Mon, 15 Sep 2008 21:11:12 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/339588/5/ONART/none/APPLI/LG-eyeing-solar-inroads-through-EU's-Conergy?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/339280/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Spotlight-on-IMEC's-latest-solar-collaboration?dcmp=rss Jef Poortmans, program director solar at IMEC, explains what's behind IMEC's work with Plextronics to create organic multi-junction solar cells with 10% efficiency by 2012, particularly the importance of nanomorphology, energy levels, and interconnects. Wed, 10 Sep 2008 21:16:07 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/339280/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Spotlight-on-IMEC's-latest-solar-collaboration?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/338983/5/ONART/none/APPLI/iSuppli:-Auto-MEMS-sensors-to-surge-by-2012?dcmp=rss New government mandates will help nearly double the global shipments of automotive microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) from 2006-2012 (a 12% CAGR), while sales surge to $2.1B (8% CAGR), according to data from iSuppli. Mon, 08 Sep 2008 18:12:57 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/338983/5/ONART/none/APPLI/iSuppli:-Auto-MEMS-sensors-to-surge-by-2012?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/338625/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Tegal-to-Acquire-Alcatel's-DRIE,-PECVD-product-lines?dcmp=rss Sept. 3, 2008 - Tegal Corp., a designer and manufacturer of plasma etch and deposition systems, has agree to acquire ' (AMMS) and Alcatel-Lucent's deep reactive ion etch (DRIE) and plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) products and related IP in a $5M in cash-and-stock transaction. Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:11:29 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/338625/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Tegal-to-Acquire-Alcatel's-DRIE,-PECVD-product-lines?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/338507/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC,-Plextronics-eye-organic-solar-cells?dcmp=rss European R&D consortium IMEC and Plextronics say they are collaborating on development of a new process for high-efficiency organic solar cells using the company's materials and inks. Tue, 02 Sep 2008 17:39:40 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/338507/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC,-Plextronics-eye-organic-solar-cells?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/337693/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Explosive-growth-reshuffles-Top-10-solar-ranking?dcmp=rss The explosion of photovoltaics production across the globe has completely reshuffled the top companies in Nomura Securities' annual ranking of the leading companies, knocking long established Japanese players out of the top spots. Japan's leading solar companies outline their strategies for this changing market in this report from SST partner Nikkei Microdevices. Fri, 22 Aug 2008 18:33:06 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/337693/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Explosive-growth-reshuffles-Top-10-solar-ranking?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/337307/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Global-solar-cell-market-to-quadruple-by-2012?dcmp=rss The global solar cell market will surge fourfold to roughly ¥4.6T (US $41.74B) by 2012, with much faster growth in the sector for silicon-conserving solar cells, according to Japanese market research firm Fuji Keizai, cited by the Nikkei Business Daily. Tue, 19 Aug 2008 01:08:48 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/337307/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Global-solar-cell-market-to-quadruple-by-2012?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/336519/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Scientists-tout-flexible-silicon-based-"eye"?dcmp=rss Researchers created a hemispherical "eye" camera using an array of single-crystalline silicon detectors and electronics in a stretchable, interconnected mesh, an achievement they say points the way toward advanced camera designs. Thu, 07 Aug 2008 21:43:23 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/336519/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Scientists-tout-flexible-silicon-based-"eye"?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/336496/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Japan-players-bet-big-on-emerging-thin-film-solar?dcmp=rss Big established players in Japan, led by Mitsubishi Chemical and Sanyo Electric, are putting significant money into major new efforts to move thin-film solar technologies into volume production in the next few years. Thu, 07 Aug 2008 20:20:18 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/336496/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Japan-players-bet-big-on-emerging-thin-film-solar?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/336030/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Sarnoff-wields-SOI-in-bid-for-back-illuminated-image-sensors?dcmp=rss Sarnoff exec David Cheskis describes the company's backside thinning technology that enables the use of SOI substrates, and why SOI is a more cost-effective and better performance alternative than bulk silicon for back-illuminated image sensors. Fri, 01 Aug 2008 17:13:36 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/336030/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Sarnoff-wields-SOI-in-bid-for-back-illuminated-image-sensors?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/335861/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Analyst:-Next-big-MEMS-market-is-cell-phones?dcmp=rss A new report from Yole Développement criticizes MEMS-based sensor and actuator firms for not figuring out how tap into what it says is the largest growth opportunity for MEMS devices over the next five years: wireless handsets. Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:27:36 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/335861/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Analyst:-Next-big-MEMS-market-is-cell-phones?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/335705/5/ONART/none/APPLI/PV-market-outlook:-A-contrarian's-view?dcmp=rss There's a lot of optimism and interest crowding the photovoltaic space, and this was certainly the case witnessed at several Intersolar presentations during SEMICON West, offering different takes on the direction of the PV market. The first of these offered a decidedly contrarian view about the future (or lack of it) for many PV businesses. Wed, 30 Jul 2008 14:51:46 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/335705/5/ONART/none/APPLI/PV-market-outlook:-A-contrarian's-view?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/334706/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Global-Solar-scaling-CIGS-heights?dcmp=rss Unlike its flashier competitors, Global Solar has quietly achieved fully commercialized solar products involving depositing CIGS films and solar cells for modules designed for crystalline silicon. Tim Teich, VP for sales and marketing, tells SST more about the company and its seemingly low profile in Tuscon, AZ, and where he sees the most promising growth ahead. Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:32:27 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/334706/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Global-Solar-scaling-CIGS-heights?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/334404/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Oerlikon-announces-deals-with-CMC-Magnetics,-Flextronics?dcmp=rss Over in the Intersolar side of this week's festivities in San Francisco, Oerlikon Solar has booked orders from Sunwell for two end-to-end thin-film silicon production lines in Taiwan. Flextronics also will now support Oerlikon's scalability requirements globally. Tue, 15 Jul 2008 21:43:20 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/334404/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Oerlikon-announces-deals-with-CMC-Magnetics,-Flextronics?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/334215/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC-makes-solar-cells-by-peeling-Si-foil-layers?dcmp=rss European R&D consortium IMEC says it has come up with a method to produce ~50μm thin crystalline silicon wafers for use in solar cells, that uses available tools and is potentially kerf-loss free. Mon, 14 Jul 2008 06:24:32 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/334215/5/ONART/none/APPLI/IMEC-makes-solar-cells-by-peeling-Si-foil-layers?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/334190/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Paper:-PV-demand-pinching-consumables-supplies,-too?dcmp=rss Polysilicon suppliers are taking steps to ramp up output and secure supplies in the face of increasing demand from the photovoltaics sector, but there may be a squeeze on related manufacturing components/materials, including possible shortages of manufacturing crucibles used in ingot production. Sat, 12 Jul 2008 03:41:16 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/334190/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Paper:-PV-demand-pinching-consumables-supplies,-too?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/333137/5/ONART/none/APPLI/MEMS-at-SEMICON-West:-Smaller-consumer-die-creates-need-for-new-etch,-clean-processe?dcmp=rss by Dr. Paula Doe, Contributing Editor, Solid-State Technology New technologies in MEMS etching is one of the hot topics at this year's SEMICON West (July 13-17, San Francisco). Growing demand for MEMS systems in consumer gear means higher volumes and price pressures, so device-makers are shrinking geometry die to cut costs -- and the finer processes needed on those smaller die may require new kinds of etching and cleaning processes. Mon, 30 Jun 2008 14:26:15 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/333137/5/ONART/none/APPLI/MEMS-at-SEMICON-West:-Smaller-consumer-die-creates-need-for-new-etch,-clean-processe?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/333085/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Taiwan-firms-offset-IC-softness-with-solar-spark?dcmp=rss June 27, 2008 - A slumping semiconductor market (including final manufacturing) and still-hot solar technology is causing a number of Taiwan firms in the IC chain to offset their main business with solar cell work, reports the Taiwan Economic News. Fri, 27 Jun 2008 21:19:44 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/333085/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Taiwan-firms-offset-IC-softness-with-solar-spark?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332691/5/ONART/none/APPLI/SVTC-opens-solar-R&D-center,-names-first-partner-&-customer?dcmp=rss June 25, 2008 - SVTC Technologies has officially opened its Silicon Valley Photovoltaic Development Center in San Jose, with a new solar-cell manufacturing line, solar-module certification equipment, and a major silicon-wafer solar cell customer. Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:32:22 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332691/5/ONART/none/APPLI/SVTC-opens-solar-R&D-center,-names-first-partner-&-customer?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330445/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Analyst:-LCD-tool-sales-doubling-by-2010,-sharing-spotlight-with-P?dcmp=rss June 2, 2008 - Sales of array processing equipment for TFT-LCD manufacturing are expected to more than double between now and 2010 to more than $7.0B, rebounding from significant declines in the past two years -- creating a nice boost to suppliers who turned their sights to brighter prospects in the solar market, according to a report from analyst firm The Information Network. Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:07:24 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330445/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Analyst:-LCD-tool-sales-doubling-by-2010,-sharing-spotlight-with-P?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329957/5/ONART/none/APPLI/PV-tool-suppliers-form-association?dcmp=rss May 28, 2008 - A group of more than 30 companies in the US, Europe, and Asia have organized a new association to share information and ideas, and develop business deals and strategic partnerships. Wed, 28 May 2008 18:24:44 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329957/5/ONART/none/APPLI/PV-tool-suppliers-form-association?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329847/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Tatung-eyeing-PV-inroads?dcmp=rss May 27, 2008 - Taiwan electronics congolomerate Tatung reportedly plans to add a high-margin photovoltaics segment to its arsenal by year's end. Tue, 27 May 2008 19:26:04 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329847/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Report:-Tatung-eyeing-PV-inroads?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329716/5/ONART/none/APPLI/UCSD:-Nanowires-can-boost-solar-cell-efficiency?dcmp=rss May 23, 2008 - Researchers at the U. of California/San Diego say they have created solar cells "spiked" with nanowires in a proof-of-concept experiment that could show the way to improved efficiency in thin-flim solar cells. Fri, 23 May 2008 21:15:57 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329716/5/ONART/none/APPLI/UCSD:-Nanowires-can-boost-solar-cell-efficiency?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329588/5/ONART/none/APPLI/CNT-asbestos-links-point-to-need-for-more-research,-say-expert?dcmp=rss by James Montgomery, News Editor, Solid State Technology May 22, 2008 - A new report published in the journal Nature Nanotechnologies is raising alarms about apparent health risks associated with carbon nanotubes (CNT), similar to those seen with asbestos. But efforts are already underway to look more closely at potential issues, according to Walt Trybula, former SEMATECH immersion lithography guru and now at Texas State U., in an email exchange with WaferNEWS. Thu, 22 May 2008 21:59:17 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329588/5/ONART/none/APPLI/CNT-asbestos-links-point-to-need-for-more-research,-say-expert?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328487/5/ONART/none/APPLI/SunPower,-Heliovolt-tout-record-efficiencies?dcmp=rss May 12, 2008 - Two firms developing technologies with application in the solar industry are claiming new records in efficiency -- one with its thin-film materials, the other with solar cells. Mon, 12 May 2008 20:28:17 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328487/5/ONART/none/APPLI/SunPower,-Heliovolt-tout-record-efficiencies?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328098/5/ONART/none/APPLI/DuPont-expanding-in-China-to-chase-PV-growth?dcmp=rss May 7, 2008 - DuPont says it will "soon begin" construction of a R&D site in Hong Kong and a manufacturing facility in Shenzhen, China, to tap into the thin-film side of the high-growth photovoltaic (PV) industry. Wed, 07 May 2008 21:18:14 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328098/5/ONART/none/APPLI/DuPont-expanding-in-China-to-chase-PV-growth?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327823/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Princeton-tips-way-to-"melt"-chip-features?dcmp=rss May 5, 2008 - A new technique to literally melt away defects in etching microchip structures, and significantly reduce line-edge roughness (LER), has been revealed by scientists at Princeton U. Mon, 05 May 2008 21:56:34 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327823/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Princeton-tips-way-to-"melt"-chip-features?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327733/5/ONART/none/APPLI/TSMC-announces-entry-into-MEMS-market?dcmp=rss May 5, 2008 - Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (TSMC) has unveiled plans to enter the MEMS business, presenting a roadmap of the MEMS process and desires to cover trends in MEMS production at "CMOS integrated MEMS foundries," according to Nikkei Microdevices magazine. Mon, 05 May 2008 15:39:34 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327733/5/ONART/none/APPLI/TSMC-announces-entry-into-MEMS-market?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325613/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Oxford-Instruments-buys-TDI,-expands-HB-LED-biz?dcmp=rss Apr. 11, 2008 - UK-based Oxford Instruments says it has acquired Silver Spring, MD-based Technologies and Devices International, a developer of hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) technology and processes, in a bid to expand its offerings for makers of high-brightness LEDs. Fri, 11 Apr 2008 22:00:24 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325613/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Oxford-Instruments-buys-TDI,-expands-HB-LED-biz?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325571/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Analyst:-Image-sensor-market-to-"bounce-back"-in-200?dcmp=rss Apr. 11, 2008 - Image sensor sales are poised to return to growth in 2008 after a "rare" off year in 2007, rising about 10% to a record ~$7.6B, according to a new report from IC Insights. Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:46:21 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325571/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Analyst:-Image-sensor-market-to-"bounce-back"-in-200?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/317669/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Shedding-light-on-alternative-to-LCD-manufacturing?dcmp=rss Uni-Pixel says its flat-panel color display technology, called time-multiplexed optical shutter (TMOS), provides thin-film transistor (TFT) system manufacturers with an alternative to the current LCD manufacturing process, while leveraging their current infrastructure. WaferNEWS spoke with the company's CFO, Jim Tassone, about the technology, timeline, and the company's business model. Tue, 22 Jan 2008 17:42:15 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/317669/5/ONART/none/APPLI/Shedding-light-on-alternative-to-LCD-manufacturing?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/297564/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Final-score:-Half-Pitchers-0.00000035,-Red-Brick-Walls-0.00000002?dcmp=rss Looks like the US has a lot to learn from European soccer superiority, even in the nanoscale world. ETH Zurich took home three top prizes in last weekend's nanogram demonstration at the RoboCup games, placing first in all three skills tests -- a goal-to-goal "2mm dash" (316ms), slalom around fixed polymer photoresist posts patterned onto the "field" (583ms), and ball handling drill (3 goals in 3 minutes). Tue, 10 Jul 2007 19:53:37 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/297564/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Final-score:-Half-Pitchers-0.00000035,-Red-Brick-Walls-0.00000002?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/292163/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Flash-memory-is-my-copilot;-Bowling-for-dollars-and-empowermen?dcmp=rss In a fascinating observation, Chipworks' Dick James did a teardown of a 4Gbit iPod's Samsung flash memory chip and found himself face-to-face with the apparent visage of Jesus Christ. ALSO: What could be more fun than an afternoon of social networking and hurling heavy spherical projectiles in support of a noble cause? Wed, 09 May 2007 15:32:39 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/292163/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Flash-memory-is-my-copilot;-Bowling-for-dollars-and-empowermen?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/288902/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Deep-in-the-"art"-of-Texas?dcmp=rss Guest artist Hank Waddell will display his sculptures at Tokyo Electron's Austin, TX facility on Thursday April 13, in a one-month traveling exhibit provided by Quattro Gallery. A special reception will be held this Thursday, April 5 (4-7pm) for employees, customers, and special guests. Tue, 03 Apr 2007 19:20:45 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/288902/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Deep-in-the-"art"-of-Texas?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/285806/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Farewell-to-industry-peer?dcmp=rss Our condolences to family and friends of Dr. Doug Smeaton, president and CEO of Semiconductor Insights, who passed away on Feb. 18 after a diving accident. He served as president/CEO of the firm since 1992, led its management buyout in 1994, and oversaw its expansion from just over a dozen employees to over 155. Tue, 27 Feb 2007 18:19:39 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/285806/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Farewell-to-industry-peer?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/279006/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Love-the-ambiance,-but-the-OPC-farfalle-wasn't-al-dente?dcmp=rss Give a little compassion, get an earful of musical charm, and maybe score some scrumptuous dinner at the "Heart of Technology" live music benefit, held tomorrow night (Dec. 6, 5:00-10:30pm) at the South First Billiards in San Jose, CA. You'll help support the Second Harvest Foodbank, enjoy industry bands -- and maybe win a fancy dinner cooked for you by top industry execs. Tue, 05 Dec 2006 22:15:48 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/279006/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Love-the-ambiance,-but-the-OPC-farfalle-wasn't-al-dente?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/279005/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Kudos-for-semiconductor-safety?dcmp=rss December 5, 2006 - Congratulations to Chang-Gyu Hwang, recipient of this year's Akira Inoue award from SEMI, for his efforts and achievements in semiconductor industry environmental, health, and safety improvements. Tue, 05 Dec 2006 22:13:47 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/279005/5/ONART/none/BITLN/Kudos-for-semiconductor-safety?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/277879/5/ONART/none/BITLN/BITLINES:-New-spin-for-stock-options-prying;-Seeding-growth-of-nanoscientist?dcmp=rss Congrats to Richard Dyck, president of TCS-Japan and the next recipient of SEMI's annual Bob Graham Award for outstanding contributions in semiconductor equipment and materials marketing... And kudos also goes out to Roger Grace, Northeastern U. grad who is sponsoring funding at his alma mater to support nanomanufacturing education for future scientists... Tue, 21 Nov 2006 19:56:56 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/277879/5/ONART/none/BITLN/BITLINES:-New-spin-for-stock-options-prying;-Seeding-growth-of-nanoscientist?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/276827/5/ONART/none/BITLN/BITLINES:-New-spin-for-stock-options-prying,-"Meeting-Quota";-Honoring-MBE-MVP?dcmp=rss For some fresh perspective on just how competitive the tech world is, we point to a recent survey from law firm Fulbright & Jaworski, which claims that the average technology company faces no less than 79 separate lawsuits in US courts at a given time, spending on average $11.8 million annually on litigation. Thu, 09 Nov 2006 16:49:54 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/276827/5/ONART/none/BITLN/BITLINES:-New-spin-for-stock-options-prying,-"Meeting-Quota";-Honoring-MBE-MVP?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/333025/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Intevac-buying-Oerlikon's-magnetic-media-biz?dcmp=rss June 27, 2008 - Intevac has agreed to purchase OC Oerlikon Balzers' magnetic media equipment business, a deal that bolsters Intevac's systems and IP and helps Oerlikon streamline operations and shed noncore assets. Fri, 27 Jun 2008 16:20:52 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/333025/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Intevac-buying-Oerlikon's-magnetic-media-biz?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332888/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Orbotech-buying-Photon-Dynamics-for-$290M?dcmp=rss June 26, 2008 - Israeli firm Orbotech, a supplier of automated optical inspection equipment for printed circuit boards and flat-panel displays, has agreed to purchase Photon Dynamics for $290M in cash in an effort to spur growth and diversify their FPD businesses. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 18:24:57 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332888/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Orbotech-buying-Photon-Dynamics-for-$290M?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332868/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Mattson-laying-off-5-of-workers,-spares-new-product-R&D?dcmp=rss June 26, 2008 - Citing pressures from a continued memory sector slump, Mattson Technology says it is laying off 5% of its workforce (~25 employees) by the end of the next fiscal quarter, in an effort to reduce costs in certain areas while sparing new product investments and other initiatives. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:38:16 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332868/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Mattson-laying-off-5-of-workers,-spares-new-product-R&D?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332864/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Asyst-fields-another-shareholder-buyout-proposal?dcmp=rss June 26, 2008 - Just weeks after fending off one investor's renewed attempt at a takeover, Asyst Technologies finds itself pursued by yet another that seeks to replace board directors and then sell the company at auction. Thu, 26 Jun 2008 16:23:20 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332864/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Asyst-fields-another-shareholder-buyout-proposal?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332759/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Samsung,-Hynix-joining-to-spearhead-Korean-chip-industry?dcmp=rss June 25, 2008 - Samsung and Hynix have publicly confirmed that they are working to jointly develop memory technology and are forming a "united front" to maintain Korea's status in developing next-generation semiconductors, and also support their domestic supplier base. Wed, 25 Jun 2008 19:52:58 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332759/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Samsung,-Hynix-joining-to-spearhead-Korean-chip-industry?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332702/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analysts:-TSMC's-2Q-sales,-shipments-up,-but-margins-"limited&quot?dcmp=rss June 25, 2008 - TSMC's 2Q08 revenue should be at the high end of guidance (roughly US$2.86-$2.92B, 0-2% vs. 1Q08), and 3Q is looking brighter, but for now the upswing isn't enough to increase profitability, according to an analysts from FBR Research. Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:48:17 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332702/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analysts:-TSMC's-2Q-sales,-shipments-up,-but-margins-"limited&quot?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332527/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Gartner:-Semi-IP-firms-should-focus-on-design-costs,-M&A-exposur?dcmp=rss June 23, 2008 - The global market for semiconductor IP rose 8% in 2007 driven by chip integration and cost, settling into a more muted pattern after three years of double-digit growth, with continued consolidation/M&A in the sector as vendors wrestle over marketshares, according to data from Gartner. Mon, 23 Jun 2008 20:54:27 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332527/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Gartner:-Semi-IP-firms-should-focus-on-design-costs,-M&A-exposur?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332515/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Credence,-LTX-propose-"merger-of-equals"?dcmp=rss June 23, 2008 - Automated test equipment providers Credence and LTX say they have agreed to merge their companies in a deal that they project will save them ~$25M. While bullish on their combined prospects, investors seem to think otherwise. Mon, 23 Jun 2008 20:11:58 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332515/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Credence,-LTX-propose-"merger-of-equals"?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332421/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Ferrotec-seeking-solar-cell-inroads-to-break-"chip-rut&quot?dcmp=rss June 20, 2008 - Chip equipment firm Ferrotec is one of many companies seeking to diversify into new growth opportunities, and its move into solar cells seems to have met with applause from investors and market players, notes the Nikkei daily. Sat, 21 Jun 2008 03:43:55 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332421/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Ferrotec-seeking-solar-cell-inroads-to-break-"chip-rut&quot?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332380/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-Monthly-tool-demand-slips-to-three-year-lows?dcmp=rss June 20, 2008 - Offering more evidence for chipmakers' belt-tightening this year, semiconductor equipment demand has slumped to three-year lows, to levels not seen since mid-2005, according to the latest monthly data from SEMI. Fri, 20 Jun 2008 20:26:56 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332380/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-Monthly-tool-demand-slips-to-three-year-lows?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332269/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Spansion-broadening-outsourcing-plans,-narrowing-focus-on-MirrorBit-flash-memor?dcmp=rss June 19, 2008 - Spansion says it is extending its plan to hand off manufacturing and technology work to external partners in order to focus its capital investments on accelerating development of leading-edge MirrorBit flash memory technology, other "value-added, high-margin solutions," and its newest SP1 300mm flash memory fab in Aizu-Wakamatsu, Japan. Fri, 20 Jun 2008 03:36:27 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332269/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Spansion-broadening-outsourcing-plans,-narrowing-focus-on-MirrorBit-flash-memor?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332267/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Toppan,-IBM-tie-off-32nm-photomask-work,-eye-22nm?dcmp=rss June 19, 2008 - Toppan Printing and IBM have forged a new development agreement covering the final phase of 32nm photomask process development, and all phases of 22nm photomask process development. Work will start this month at IBM's photomask facility in Essex Junction, VT. Fri, 20 Jun 2008 02:54:07 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332267/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Toppan,-IBM-tie-off-32nm-photomask-work,-eye-22nm?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332266/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Samsung,-Siltronic-ramp-Singapore-300mm-wafer-plant?dcmp=rss June 19, 2008 - Samsung Electronics and Siltronic AG have begun operations of their 300mm wafer-making JV in Singapore, Siltronic Samsung Wafer Pte. Ltd., 18 months after construction began and two years after its formation. Monthly capacity is targeted at 300,000 wafers/month by 2010, with an overall investment of $1B. Fri, 20 Jun 2008 02:52:41 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332266/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Samsung,-Siltronic-ramp-Singapore-300mm-wafer-plant?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332009/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-1Q08-demand-soft,-but-some-regions-doing-ok?dcmp=rss June 17, 2008 - Worldwide demand for semiconductor manufacturing was notably soft in 1Q08, with bookings down >20% from a year ago, but some regions are clearly working through the downturn better than others, according to the latest data from SEMI. Tue, 17 Jun 2008 21:52:19 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/332009/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-1Q08-demand-soft,-but-some-regions-doing-ok?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331965/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/EDA-consolidation-redux:-Cadence,-Mentor-squabble-over-$1.6B-offe?dcmp=rss July 17, 2008 - In a stunner of a deal that could shake up the EDA industry, Cadence Design Systems has made an unsolicited proposal to acquire Mentor Graphics for $1.6B in cash. And as has been the trend lately, the offer is being served up in full view on newswires for public digestion. Tue, 17 Jun 2008 17:18:58 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331965/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/EDA-consolidation-redux:-Cadence,-Mentor-squabble-over-$1.6B-offe?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331925/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/AMAT-adds-VC-firm-Francisco,-pitches-for-ASMI's-entire-frontend-bi?dcmp=rss June 17, 2008 - A day after its $400M-$500M offer for ASMI's ALD/PECVD units was rebuffed -- but with an asterisk -- Applied Materials has pitched a new proposal: buying all of ASMI's frontend business activities, with help from Francisco Partners. Tue, 17 Jun 2008 14:50:15 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331925/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/AMAT-adds-VC-firm-Francisco,-pitches-for-ASMI's-entire-frontend-bi?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331888/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Intel-spins-off-$50M-solar-firm?dcmp=rss June 16, 2008 - Intel says it is spinning off key assets of an internal startup business into an independent company to manufacture and supply photovoltaic cells to solar module makers. Tue, 17 Jun 2008 05:05:01 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331888/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Intel-spins-off-$50M-solar-firm?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331887/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Japan-chip-tool-firms'-foreign-ownership-on-the-rise?dcmp=rss June 16, 2008 - Foreign ownership of Japanese frontend process semiconductor equipment firms rose in the fiscal year ended in March, while the opposite was true for domestic firms serving the backend of the manufacturing line, noted the Nikkei daily. Tue, 17 Jun 2008 05:04:07 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331887/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Japan-chip-tool-firms'-foreign-ownership-on-the-rise?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331885/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-AMAT-customer-ramp-"so-far,-so-good"?dcmp=rss June 16, 2008 - FBR Research analysts say after the launch of Signet Solar's 60MW pilot plant (three lines) in Mocau, Germany, was a welcomed fast rollout for supplier Applied Materials after some glitches with a previous customer install, and although bottlenecks are identified there appear to be solutions at work. Tue, 17 Jun 2008 05:02:12 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331885/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-AMAT-customer-ramp-"so-far,-so-good"?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331879/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Toshiba/SanDisk-JV-scaling-back-200mm-work?dcmp=rss June 16, 2008 - Toshiba and SanDisk say they are ramping down flash memory output on 200mm wafers to about 60% of current capacity, a move that includes ending production at their NAND JV FlashVision Ltd. Mon, 16 Jun 2008 21:53:51 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331879/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Toshiba/SanDisk-JV-scaling-back-200mm-work?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331844/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Gartner:-Silicon-market-leaders-riding-300mm-expansions?dcmp=rss June 16, 1008 - Gartner recently came out with its latest figures for the silicon wafer market, which it calculates grew 22.5% in 2007 to $12.5B, the 2nd straight year of >20% growth. Drivers include continued rising demand for 300mm wafers and generally higher wafer prices due to a shortage of polysilicon. Shipments rose 8.1% to 8.9B square inches. Mon, 16 Jun 2008 19:08:17 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331844/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Gartner:-Silicon-market-leaders-riding-300mm-expansions?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331834/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/AMAT-ASMI-redux:-No-thanks,-but-we're-listening?dcmp=rss June 16, 2008 - In a scenario reminiscent of the recent Axcelis/Sumitomo public M&A tussle, ASMI board members say they aren't interested in selling their ALD and/or PECVD businesses to Applied Materials "as such" though the firm "is willing to explore and discuss [...] any alternative arrangements" that could be beneficial to the company and its shareholders. Mon, 16 Jun 2008 18:00:20 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331834/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/AMAT-ASMI-redux:-No-thanks,-but-we're-listening?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331441/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Elpida,-Qimonda-finalize-DRAM-JV?dcmp=rss June 11, 2008 - Elpida Memory and Qimonda AG have put the finishing touches on their proposed DRAM JV (first disclosed in April) to develop memory chips with '4F2' cell sizes utilizing 40nm process technologies (ready by 2010) and later moving to 30nm, utilizing Qimonda's buried wordline technology and Elpida's stack capacitor technology. Wed, 11 Jun 2008 21:42:54 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331441/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Elpida,-Qimonda-finalize-DRAM-JV?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331282/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Macronix,-ProMos-enjoying-Wii-windfall?dcmp=rss June 10, 2008 - Robust demand expectations for Nintendo's wildly popular Wii game console means more business for chip supplier Macronix, which reportedly is turning to Promos Technologies for some extra foundry help. Tue, 10 Jun 2008 20:07:29 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331282/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Macronix,-ProMos-enjoying-Wii-windfall?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331192/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Chartered:-2Q-on-track,-profit-factors-will-even-out?dcmp=rss June 10, 2009 - Singapore foundry Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing says its 2Q08 financials should come in just about as projected, with lower gross profits offset by a tax credit. Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:43:05 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/331192/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Chartered:-2Q-on-track,-profit-factors-will-even-out?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330789/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Foundries-follow-TSMC's-price-hike-lead?dcmp=rss June 4, 2008 - UMC has announced plans to raise prices, days after market-leading TSMC said it was exploring such a move of its own, decisions seen as ways to not only boost profits, but pressure customers to file orders ahead of the busy seasonal periods. Wed, 04 Jun 2008 21:38:13 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330789/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Foundries-follow-TSMC's-price-hike-lead?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330770/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst-sees-Chartered-gaining-share?dcmp=rss June 4, 2008 - A tighter capex environment and announced price hikes by foundry competitors could offer some market share benefit to Singapore foundry Chartered Semiconductor, according to an analyst's report. Wed, 04 Jun 2008 19:33:56 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330770/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst-sees-Chartered-gaining-share?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330560/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Gartner-inches-up-chip-forecast,-still-wary-of-macroeconomic?dcmp=rss June 3, 2008 - Gartner has slightly raised its forecast for worldwide semiconductor market growth in 2008, from 3.4% to 4.6%, saying that things seem stable and "seasonally normal" with healthy end-market demand despite macroeconomic concerns. Tue, 03 Jun 2008 17:20:05 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330560/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Gartner-inches-up-chip-forecast,-still-wary-of-macroeconomic?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330503/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/NVLS-mid-Q:-"Modestly-low,"-not-much-change?dcmp=rss June 2, 2008 - Novellus Systems execs last week laid out their midquarter business views in an analyst presentation, saying business hasn't really changed much in the past two months, still "weak" but not as bad as historically worst-case. In general, signs still point to a rebound in foundry and memory investments later this year or 2009. Tue, 03 Jun 2008 01:47:12 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330503/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/NVLS-mid-Q:-"Modestly-low,"-not-much-change?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330502/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Display-driver-ICs-"maturing"-as-FPD-demand-surge?dcmp=rss June 2, 2008 - As global flat-panel displays become ubiquitous, sales of display driver ICs are about to decelerate due to pricing pressures and technology advancements, according to a report from iSuppli. Tue, 03 Jun 2008 00:52:12 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330502/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Display-driver-ICs-"maturing"-as-FPD-demand-surge?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330452/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hynix-set-to-hike-prices-15?dcmp=rss June 2, 2008 - Hynix Semiconductor reportedly is ready to lay down up to 15% price hikes on its memory chips, after similar increases in May and April, convinced that the market has firmed up enough to support such a move. Mon, 02 Jun 2008 20:14:09 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330452/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hynix-set-to-hike-prices-15?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330432/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SIA:-April-chip-sales-flat?dcmp=rss June 2, 2008 - Worldwide semiconductor sales were about flat in April vs. March levels, at $21.2B (+0.4%), and up 5.9% from a year ago, results that "are in line with historical industry patterns," noted the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), in a statement. Mon, 02 Jun 2008 17:49:26 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330432/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SIA:-April-chip-sales-flat?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330172/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analysts:-DRAM,-NAND-outlook-stable;-look-for-B2S-build-as-next-beaco?dcmp=rss May 29, 2008 - Fundamentals in the memory industry are stable and "incrementally improving," with DRAM prices rising again and NAND flash demand seen improving in general, according to analyst firm FBR Research. The next big market indicator is rapidly approaching, in the late-June timeframe with an update of devicemakers' back-to-school build rate schedules. Thu, 29 May 2008 22:32:35 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330172/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analysts:-DRAM,-NAND-outlook-stable;-look-for-B2S-build-as-next-beaco?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330124/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI-projects-"strong-rebound"-in-2009-after-2008-troug?dcmp=rss May 29, 2008 - Investments to tool up semiconductor fabs will be down about -17% this year (a mild downgrade from earlier projections of -15%), but look for a rebound of +12% growth in 2009 as postponed fab projects come back into focus, according to data from SEMI's World Fab Forecast. Thu, 29 May 2008 21:05:55 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/330124/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI-projects-"strong-rebound"-in-2009-after-2008-troug?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329929/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analysis:-Oki-Rohm-chip-sale-epitomizes-Japan-industry's-pat?dcmp=rss May 28, 2008 - Japan's Electric Industry Co. is spinning off its chipmaking operation into a new company and giving a majority ownership to Rohm Co., a move that illustrates the history of Japan's chip industry since the 1980s and the hazard of trying to do business at the leading-edge of technology. Wed, 28 May 2008 17:09:19 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329929/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analysis:-Oki-Rohm-chip-sale-epitomizes-Japan-industry's-pat?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329873/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/WSTS-halves-2008-growth-outlook?dcmp=rss May 27, 2008 - Global semiconductor sales are seen growing just under 5% in 2008, better than the 3.2% seen in 2007 but only half what was expected just six months ago, according to new calculations from World Semiconductor Trade Statistics Inc. (WSTS). The group's 2009-2010 forecasts remain close to original expectations. Tue, 27 May 2008 21:50:41 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329873/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/WSTS-halves-2008-growth-outlook?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329862/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Japan-chipmakers-slashing-capex-by-22?dcmp=rss May 27, 2008 - Japan's top seven chip companies -- Toshiba, Elpida, Sony, Renesas, NEC Electronics, Matsushita, and Fujitsu Microelectronics -- plan to cut their combined capex by 21.8% in fiscal 2008 to ¥806.7B (US $7.81B), mainly due to a shift away from the weak memory market, notes the Nikkei Business Daily. Tue, 27 May 2008 20:17:07 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329862/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Japan-chipmakers-slashing-capex-by-22?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329842/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Infineon-CEO-out;-NXP/Freescale-in??dcmp=rss May 27, 2008 - The resignation of Infineon's top exec Wolfgang Ziebart could be due to butting heads with management about whether to pursue a large industry tie-up, with NXP the likely partner, according to industry reports. Tue, 27 May 2008 19:05:39 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329842/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Infineon-CEO-out;-NXP/Freescale-in??dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329788/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SICAS:-Capacity-comes-online-in-1Q08,-utilization-flat?dcmp=rss May 27, 2008 - Worldwide semiconductor utilization held steady at around 90% in 1Q08, though a closer look at the numbers shows a surge of leading-edge capacity coming online at the start of the year, according to the latest quarterly statistics from Semiconductor International Capacity Statistics (SICAS). Tue, 27 May 2008 15:03:14 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329788/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SICAS:-Capacity-comes-online-in-1Q08,-utilization-flat?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329447/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-Tool-sales-step-back-in-April-(not-March!)?dcmp=rss May 21, 2008 - SEMI touched up its March figures for chip equipment demand, resulting in a little better picture for that month -- but the view on April figures is weak. Wed, 21 May 2008 19:10:05 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/329447/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-Tool-sales-step-back-in-April-(not-March!)?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328995/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Some-Japan-firms-see-late-year-chip-equipment-reboun?dcmp=rss May 16, 2008 - Comments from Japanese chip equipment execs echo comments from Applied Materials earlier this week suggesting chip industry capex will be soft well into 2H08 and maybe not rebound until early 2009. Not everyone is optimistic yet, though. Fri, 16 May 2008 21:23:18 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328995/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Some-Japan-firms-see-late-year-chip-equipment-reboun?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328968/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/LSI,-Agere-spur-ITC-probe-on-tungsten-ICs?dcmp=rss May 16, 2008 - The US International Trade Commission is launching a wide-ranging probe on behalf of LSI and Agere Systems, to investigate certain semiconductor ICs and products containing tungsten metallization that might be infringing patents. Fri, 16 May 2008 18:48:38 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328968/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/LSI,-Agere-spur-ITC-probe-on-tungsten-ICs?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328788/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/AMAT-alarm:-Capex-sliding-back-to-"like-2003"?dcmp=rss by James Montgomery, News Editor, Solid State Technology May 14, 2008 - Industry projections of a soft 2008 aren't nearly soft enough, according to AMAT president/CEO Mike Splinter -- he projects capex could be down 35% or more this year. "There's not a good story" being told in any chipmaking sector, he told listeners in a quarterly results conference call, adding that capex levels will be similar to those from 2003. Thu, 15 May 2008 02:47:35 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328788/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/AMAT-alarm:-Capex-sliding-back-to-"like-2003"?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328671/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Reports:-China-quake-affects-few-chip-firms?dcmp=rss May 14, 2008 - Regional press reports analyzing the impact of the May 12 major earthquake in China's Sichuan province, say that most tech firms didn't suffer significant damage or losses -- with one big exception. Wed, 14 May 2008 14:53:46 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328671/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Reports:-China-quake-affects-few-chip-firms?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328443/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/AMAT-tips-SunFab-service-plan?dcmp=rss May 12, 2008 - Applied Materials has added a service program guaranteeing the performance cost/output of its SunFab thin-film line for producing solar modules. Its first customer: Spain's T-Solar Global, which ordered a 40MW/yr max capacity SunFab line in 2007. Mon, 12 May 2008 17:33:14 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328443/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/AMAT-tips-SunFab-service-plan?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328427/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-China-wooing-300mm-fabs-from-Taiwan?dcmp=rss May 12, 2008 - Taiwan chip assembler Advanced Semiconductor Engineering and memory firm ProMOS are being wooed by mainland Chinese officials to build a 300mm wafer fab onshore, according to the Taiwan Economic News, citing mainland press reports. Mon, 12 May 2008 16:16:42 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328427/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-China-wooing-300mm-fabs-from-Taiwan?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328236/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Hynix,-ProMOS-deepening-tech-partnership,-add-ownership-stak?dcmp=rss May 8, 2008 - Hynix Semiconductor and ProMOS Technologies have agreed to a partnership that will allow access to the Korean chipmaker's 50nm-node DRAM stack process technology, and give Hynix access to more 300mm capacity and an 8%-10% ownership stake in the Taiwan memory firm. Thu, 08 May 2008 21:47:55 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328236/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Hynix,-ProMOS-deepening-tech-partnership,-add-ownership-stak?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328232/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Qualcomm,-Foxlink-expanding-MEMS-work?dcmp=rss May 8, 2008 - Qualcomm's MEMS subsidiary and Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co. Ltd. (dba "Foxlink") say they are opening a new dedicated fab in Taoyuan, Taiwan, to make Qualcomm's "mirasol" displays. The plant is slated to become fully operational in 2009. Thu, 08 May 2008 21:23:54 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328232/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Qualcomm,-Foxlink-expanding-MEMS-work?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328096/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-Wafer-shipments-flat-in-1Q08?dcmp=rss May 7, 2008 - Worldwide silicon wafer area shipments were roughly the same in 1Q as they were in 4Q, reflecting the industry's overall conservative environment, according to data from SEMI. Wed, 07 May 2008 21:02:27 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/328096/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-Wafer-shipments-flat-in-1Q08?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327917/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Big-4-still-rule-foundry-roost,-but-Samsung-moving-u?dcmp=rss May 6, 2008 - The top four foundries stayed comfortably ahead of the pack in 2007, with SMIC and Chartered still battling for third place behind TSMC and UMC, according to IC Insights. But making a big push into the top 10 is a big-name IDM with a burgeoning foundry biz of its own. Tue, 06 May 2008 18:31:59 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327917/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Big-4-still-rule-foundry-roost,-but-Samsung-moving-u?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327912/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Chip-heavyweights-pin-down-450mm-date,-tout-"collaboration&quot?dcmp=rss May 6, 2008 - Three of the world's top chipmakers -- Intel, Samsung, and TSMC -- have agreed on a due-date of 2012 to have a 450mm-wafer-capable pilot line tested and ready -- putting everyone in the semiconductor chain, from materials and equipment developers/suppliers to other chipmakers, on the clock to get 450mm technologies ready in four years. Tue, 06 May 2008 17:27:18 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327912/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Chip-heavyweights-pin-down-450mm-date,-tout-"collaboration&quot?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327887/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Mentor,-NXP-to-share-DFT-tools,-technology,-dev't?dcmp=rss May 6, 2008 - Mentor Graphics and NXP Semiconductors have announced a partnership to share design-for-test (DFT) products and test technologies, with an eye toward tools development. Tue, 06 May 2008 15:55:13 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327887/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Mentor,-NXP-to-share-DFT-tools,-technology,-dev't?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327880/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Metrology/inspection-sector-did-better-in-2007,-but-still-underperforme?dcmp=rss May 6, 2008 - The semiconductor metrology/inspection equipment market grew 7.2% in 2007, according to calculations from market research firm The Information Network. Good news: That's double the ~3% growth it expected at the mid-year point. Bad news: it's still well below the 11% growth for the frontend wafer processing side of the equipment sector. Tue, 06 May 2008 15:45:00 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327880/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Metrology/inspection-sector-did-better-in-2007,-but-still-underperforme?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327844/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SVTC's-Laetz-tips-solar-growth-work,-plans?dcmp=rss by James Montgomery, News Editor, Solid State Technology May 5, 2008 - Kurt Laetz, managing director of strategic marketing for SVTC Technologies, tells WaferNEWS about the R&D (with a "capital-D") foundry's interest in the solar market, its expansion plans both technical and geographical, and why it meets a need ahead of a solar industry shakeout. Tue, 06 May 2008 01:32:54 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327844/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SVTC's-Laetz-tips-solar-growth-work,-plans?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327763/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Qimonda-seeks-PV-inroads-with-German-JV?dcmp=rss May 5, 2008 - Qimonda AG is diversifying into the photovoltaics sector through a new majority-owned JV with German solar company Centrosolar Group to build, equip, and operate a solar cell manufacturing plant. Mon, 05 May 2008 18:10:17 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327763/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Qimonda-seeks-PV-inroads-with-German-JV?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327731/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Japan-news:-Worries-about-weak-digital-demand-from-Olympics?dcmp=rss May 5, 2008 - The 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing this summer have long been touted as a potential windfall for consumer electronics, but a pair of reports out of Japan suggest the numbers won't add up as high as previously hoped. Mon, 05 May 2008 15:24:10 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327731/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Japan-news:-Worries-about-weak-digital-demand-from-Olympics?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327675/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-No-winners-in-DRAM-"chicken-game"?dcmp=rss May 2, 2008 - Despite throwing its market-leading weight around by hiking production as competitors retrench, even mighty Samsung couldn't turn a profit in the DRAM market during a tough 1Q08, according to data from iSuppli. Fri, 02 May 2008 21:43:05 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327675/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-No-winners-in-DRAM-"chicken-game"?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327505/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Photon-Dynamics-outsourcing-more-LCD-tool-work?dcmp=rss May 1, 2008 - Photon Dynamics says it has agreed to have Taiwan's C Sun Manufacturing Ltd. manufacture its earlier-generation ArraySaver LCD array repair systems, part of the company's ongoing efforts to better manage costs in the LCD capital equipment market. Thu, 01 May 2008 19:45:12 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327505/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Photon-Dynamics-outsourcing-more-LCD-tool-work?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327443/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Deposition-segments-to-accelerate-growth-through-201?dcmp=rss May 1, 2008 - Three segments of thin-layer deposition will see their growth rates increase over the next six years, with the top two (CVD and ion implant) enjoying the best growth over the period, according to data from BCC Research. Thu, 01 May 2008 16:16:10 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327443/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Deposition-segments-to-accelerate-growth-through-201?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327418/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SIA:-Chip-sales-creep-up-despite-memory,-outlook-still-optimisti?dcmp=rss May 1, 2008 - The global semiconductor market is building strength, according to latest industry sales figures, but the SIA admits it's hard to tell because of the weak memory sector. Thu, 01 May 2008 14:40:35 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327418/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SIA:-Chip-sales-creep-up-despite-memory,-outlook-still-optimisti?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327090/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Infineon-buys-Primarion,-expands-power-reach?dcmp=rss Apr. 28, 2008 - Infineon Technologies has acquired Primarion, a Torrance, CA-based fabless developer of digital power ICS, in a bid to tap into what iSuppli pegs as a 50% growth market over the next three years. Mon, 28 Apr 2008 21:09:55 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327090/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Infineon-buys-Primarion,-expands-power-reach?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327082/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Matsushita,-Sanyo-deny-M&A-rumors?dcmp=rss Apr. 28, 2008 - A Japanese media report claiming Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. is buying Sanyo Electric Co. is untrue, say the two companies -- but that hasn't stopped speculation in various media outlets. Mon, 28 Apr 2008 20:37:57 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327082/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Matsushita,-Sanyo-deny-M&A-rumors?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327058/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/ASMI-lays-out-roadmap-to-profits----minus-RTP,-Bilthoven?dcmp=rss by James Montgomery, News Editor, Solid State Technology Apr. 28, 2008 - ASM International has come up with an extensive new plan to return its frontend business to profitability. Key points for improvement: no more rapid-thermal processing (RTP) tools, more work sent to Singapore, and standardizing on one single-wafer platform. Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:08:54 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327058/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/ASMI-lays-out-roadmap-to-profits----minus-RTP,-Bilthoven?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327026/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SVTC-makes-solar-inroads-with-new-site,-exec?dcmp=rss Apr. 28, 2008 - SVTC Technologies created through the Dec. 2007 merger of SEMATECH subsidiary Advanced Technology Development Facility (ATDF) and Cypress Semiconductor's Silicon Valley Technology Center, is launching a new initiative in the photovoltaics (PV) arena to compete directly against established PV R&D activities in Europe and Japan. Mon, 28 Apr 2008 16:59:19 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/327026/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SVTC-makes-solar-inroads-with-new-site,-exec?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326965/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-"Worst-is-over"-for-DRAM,-but-softness-linger?dcmp=rss Apr. 25, 2008 - Industry analysis firm iSuppli is upgrading its rating of near-term DRAM market conditions to "neutral," up from a "negative" assessment back in November, saying future conditions look to be positive and indications suggest "the worst is over for DRAM suppliers" -- but the road back to market balance and profitability will still be bumpy in the near term. Sat, 26 Apr 2008 02:19:11 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326965/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-"Worst-is-over"-for-DRAM,-but-softness-linger?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326963/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Elpida-seeking-stake-in-ProMOS?dcmp=rss Apr. 25, 2008 - Japan's Elpida Memory plans to buy an ownership stake in 2nd-tier firm ProMOS Technologies through a private placement, even as it explores a DRAM JV with Qimonda and an existing far-reaching JV with regional rival Powerchip Semiconductor, according to local reports. Fri, 25 Apr 2008 21:42:51 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326963/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Elpida-seeking-stake-in-ProMOS?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326962/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Toray/Samsung-JV-boosts-FPD-circuit-substrate-capacity?dcmp=rss Apr. 25, 2008 - A JV between Japan's Toray Industries and Korea's Samsung Electronics is increasing output capacity for film circuit substrates on which FPD chips are mounted. Fri, 25 Apr 2008 21:42:01 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326962/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Toray/Samsung-JV-boosts-FPD-circuit-substrate-capacity?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326960/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Samsung-total-spending-up-15-20-in-2008?dcmp=rss Samsung Group reportedly plans to spend between 26-28T won (US $26.13-28.15B) in 2008, up from 23T won ($23.12B) in 2007, to help bolster semiconductor and flat-panel business for its electronics division locked in a "survival game" with Japanese rivals. Fri, 25 Apr 2008 21:40:08 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326960/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Samsung-total-spending-up-15-20-in-2008?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326889/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Qimonda,-Elpida-agree-to-DRAM-JV?dcmp=rss Apr. 25, 2008 - Germany's Qimonda AG and Japan's Elpida Memory have signed a memorandum of understanding to develop DRAM chips, targeting 40nm processes by 2010 and subsequently scaling to 30nm. Fri, 25 Apr 2008 16:18:44 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326889/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Qimonda,-Elpida-agree-to-DRAM-JV?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326656/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Elpida-CEO-gets-50-haircut-until-losses-end?dcmp=rss Apr. 23, 2008 - Elpida Memory's top execs are taking their company's financial position personally, reducing their salaries until the company gets back to operating profitability on a monthly basis. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 21:03:54 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326656/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Elpida-CEO-gets-50-haircut-until-losses-end?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326650/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Macronix-eyes-NOR-battle-vs.-Spansion,-Numonyx?dcmp=rss Apr. 23, 2008 - Taiwan's Macronix plans to push into NOR flash for handsets within the next three years, placing it in direct competition with Spansion and Numonyx, according to a local report. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 20:31:34 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326650/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Macronix-eyes-NOR-battle-vs.-Spansion,-Numonyx?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326628/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst's-"contrarian"-view:-ASML-set-to-outperfor?dcmp=rss Apr. 23, 2008 - A pending memory recovery later this year and more migrations to smaller technology nodes will spur another round of immersion tool orders for ASML, according to an analysis from FBR Research. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 19:27:56 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326628/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst's-"contrarian"-view:-ASML-set-to-outperfor?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326609/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Web-based-yield-management-makes-inroads-at-Cirrus-Logic?dcmp=rss by Debra Vogler, Senior Technical Editor, Solid State Technology April 23, 2008 - WaferNEWS chats with Mfg Vision CEO John O'Donnell about the significance of what the company calls the "Web 2.0" capabilities of its FloorVision enterprise yield management system, and the results being generated at Cirrus Logic. Wed, 23 Apr 2008 17:23:29 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326609/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Web-based-yield-management-makes-inroads-at-Cirrus-Logic?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326514/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Is-Korea's-Hanwha-eyeing-Hynix-takeover??dcmp=rss Apr. 22, 2008 - Is Korean chemical/finance conglomerate Hanwha Group mulling a bid for domestic chipmaker Hynix Semiconductor? Yes, says the Korea Times, saying the two sides have been "engaged in detailed internal talks." But Reuters quotes a company spokesperson saying the report is "not true." Tue, 22 Apr 2008 18:17:03 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326514/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Is-Korea's-Hanwha-eyeing-Hynix-takeover??dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326495/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hynix-invests-in-Phison?dcmp=rss Apr. 22, 2008 - Hynix Semiconductor has made an investment in Taiwan's design house Phison Electronics in a bid to prop up its NAND flash memory business, according to local reports. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:03:27 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326495/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hynix-invests-in-Phison?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326486/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Qimonda-tips-soft-1Q-numbers,-tweaks-partnerships?dcmp=rss April 22, 2008 - Qimonda AG reported a big loss in its fiscal 2Q08, indicating it is still mired in "extremely difficult market conditions," and laid out further cost reduction plans, including some changes to its technology partnerships. Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:23:28 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326486/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Qimonda-tips-soft-1Q-numbers,-tweaks-partnerships?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326447/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Chip-use-slowing,-but-sputtering-market-still-growing-through-201?dcmp=rss April 21, 2008 - The global market for sputtered films and sputtering targets should grow from $2.82B in 2007 to $5.88B in 2012, for a CAGR of 15.8%, according to data from market research firm BCC Research. Mon, 21 Apr 2008 21:40:07 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326447/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Chip-use-slowing,-but-sputtering-market-still-growing-through-201?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326376/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Insiders-mull-LED-play-from-TSMC?dcmp=rss April 21, 2008 - A $40M VC investment in a US-based LED epitaxy technology is generating rumors that TSMC is making a push into this market segment. Mon, 21 Apr 2008 17:36:13 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326376/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Insiders-mull-LED-play-from-TSMC?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326368/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Micron,-Nanya-formalize-DRAM-memory-JV?dcmp=rss April 21, 2008 - Micron Technology and Taiwan's Nanya Technology have formalized a recently announced partnership to create a new DRAM JV. An analyst tells WaferNEWS who should be most worried and why. Mon, 21 Apr 2008 16:49:48 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326368/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Micron,-Nanya-formalize-DRAM-memory-JV?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326294/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Custom-fit:-Tronics-surges-in-MEMS-foundry-sector?dcmp=rss by Debra Vogler, Senior Technical Editor, Solid State Technology April 18, 2008 - MEMS foundry and LETI spinoff Tronics Microsystems says its 2007 sales were nearly double the sector's CAGR for the year. WaferNEWS talked with them to find out how this custom component manufacturer is getting it done, what it feels is its key differentiator, and what it's working on next. Fri, 18 Apr 2008 21:49:14 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326294/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Custom-fit:-Tronics-surges-in-MEMS-foundry-sector?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326258/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-March-tool-demand-takes-a-step-back?dcmp=rss Apr. 18, 2008 - Even the quarterly-ending month couldn't muster enough strength to give the industry a positive boost, as demand continues to show softness in the semiconductor equipment sector, according to the latest data from SEMI. Fri, 18 Apr 2008 17:01:29 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326258/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-March-tool-demand-takes-a-step-back?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326177/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Trina-cancels-$1B-poly-si-plant,-anticipating-better-supplie?dcmp=rss Apr. 17, 2008 - Trina Solar says it is ceasing development of its announced $1B 10k MT polysilicon production facility, and will let "lapse" a related equipment contract with GT Solar, citing better long-term supply conditions. Thu, 17 Apr 2008 20:30:29 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/326177/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Trina-cancels-$1B-poly-si-plant,-anticipating-better-supplie?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325616/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/German-firm-Arise-ramping-output-for-Si-and-PV-cells?dcmp=rss Apr. 11, 2008 - Arise Technologies says it is increasing photovoltaic (PV) cell production targets at its facility in Bischofswerda, Germany, by 56% to 560MW by 2010. The company also is expanding a silicon pilot plant in Canada and is seeking to build another to be ready by 2011. Fri, 11 Apr 2008 22:17:59 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325616/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/German-firm-Arise-ramping-output-for-Si-and-PV-cells?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325608/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Taiwan-chip-assemblers'-China-investments-approved?dcmp=rss Apr. 11, 2008 - Four Taiwanese chip assembly firms have received approval from the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) to send nearly $90M in investments to business interests in China, ahead of what may be an increase in cross-strait business deals following the appointment of a more liberally minded Taiwan government. Fri, 11 Apr 2008 21:29:59 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325608/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Taiwan-chip-assemblers'-China-investments-approved?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325604/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Japan-news:-TEL,-Elpida-anticipate-losses?dcmp=rss Apr. 11, 2008 - Elpida memory expects a ¥20B (US $197.7M) group operating loss for the just-ended fiscal year, the company's first such loss since its market listing in late 2004. Meanwhile, TEL chip equipment orders during fiscal 4Q08 were at their lowest level in nearly three years. Fri, 11 Apr 2008 20:57:29 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325604/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Japan-news:-TEL,-Elpida-anticipate-losses?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325362/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Emcore-planning-solar-spinoff?dcmp=rss Apr. 9, 2008 - Emcore says its board of directors has authorized separation of its two business lines, fiber optics and photovoltaics, into separate corporations. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 21:39:56 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325362/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Emcore-planning-solar-spinoff?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325358/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst-lowers-chip-forecast,-but-PC-end-market-"much-brighter&quot?dcmp=rss Apr. 9, 2008 - Industry analysis firm iSuppli is lowering its outlook for semiconductor sales overall to just 4% growth in 2008 instead of a previously projected 7.5% increase -- a few weeks after it warned it would do so, and a day after slashing its outlook for the NAND flash memory sector. Wed, 09 Apr 2008 21:16:04 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325358/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst-lowers-chip-forecast,-but-PC-end-market-"much-brighter&quot?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325329/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI-acquires-fab-pubs-from-SMA?dcmp=rss Apr. 9, 2008 - SEMI has acquired the World Fab Watch database and 300mm Fab report from Strategic Marketing Associates, a year after it bought a number of publications and newsletters from the market research firm and its leader George Burns. SEMIM also will take control of the firm's Web site (scfab.com). Wed, 09 Apr 2008 19:40:29 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325329/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI-acquires-fab-pubs-from-SMA?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325161/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Worries-about-supplier-cutbacks,-consumer-spending-erode-iSuppli-NAND-outloo?dcmp=rss Apr. 8, 2008 - Weakened consumer spending -- not just in the US, but now apparently a global trend -- and signs that major buyers are slashing orders have caused analyst firm iSuppli to reduce its outlook for the NAND flash sector in 2008 by a full two-thirds. The firm now projects global NAD flash memory revenues rising 9% this year to $13.9B -- instead of an anticipated 29% rise to $17.9B, essentially removing $4B from the market. Tue, 08 Apr 2008 17:32:57 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325161/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Worries-about-supplier-cutbacks,-consumer-spending-erode-iSuppli-NAND-outloo?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325129/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Intel-launches-$500M-China-VC-fund?dcmp=rss Apr. 8, 2008 - Intel's venture capital arm, Intel Capital, has launched a second China investment fund, dubbed "Technology Fund II," to invest in wireless broadband technology, media, telecom, and "clean tech" in China. Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:46:53 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325129/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Intel-launches-$500M-China-VC-fund?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325067/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Feb.-chip-sales-"weak"-but-no-alarm-for-1?dcmp=rss Apr. 7, 2008 - February semiconductor sales were about 5% below expectations but the full picture for 1Q08 seems to still be within the seasonal range of normalcy, according to new data from analyst firm Gartner. Mon, 07 Apr 2008 18:53:35 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/325067/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Feb.-chip-sales-"weak"-but-no-alarm-for-1?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324385/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hynix-CEO-sees-closing-technology-gap-w/-Samsung?dcmp=rss Mar. 28, 2008 - Hynix plans to produce 54nm-based DRAM chips this year on schedule, saying this will "reduce the technology gap with Samsung," according to the company's CEO, quoted by the Korea Times. Hynix is currently expected to start 54nm-based DRAM production in 3Q08, vs. Samsung's 56nm possibly starting in 2Q08. Fri, 28 Mar 2008 21:07:24 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324385/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hynix-CEO-sees-closing-technology-gap-w/-Samsung?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324371/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-MEMS-sensor/actuator-growth-taking-off?dcmp=rss Mar. 28, 2008 - After growing at a 9% CAGR over the past five years, demand for MEMS-based semiconductor sensors and actuators is expected to accelerate to 19% CAGR through 2012, as emerging MEMS technologies find traction in new markets and applications, according to a report by IC Insights. The firm projects MEMS sensors/actuator sales will increase to $9.7B by 2012, vs. $4.1B in 2007. Fri, 28 Mar 2008 18:57:19 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324371/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-MEMS-sensor/actuator-growth-taking-off?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324356/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Sharp-tips-details-on-thin-film-capacity-expansion?dcmp=rss Mar. 28, 2008 - Sharp is disclosing more details about its investment in thin-film solar cell capacity at a plant in Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, scheduled to come online in 2010 with a projected capacity of 480MW, and ultimately scale up to 1GW/year peak capacity. Sharp also has a projected 160MW capacity in its Katsuragi plant in Nara Prefecture. Fri, 28 Mar 2008 16:40:08 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324356/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Sharp-tips-details-on-thin-film-capacity-expansion?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324217/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hynix-slashing-2008-capex,-300mm-plans-unaffected?dcmp=rss Mar. 27, 2008 - The latest casualty in the memory sector slump appears to be Hynix, which is about to shave more than a quarter off its planned 2008 investments in 2008, with late-year investments now cast in doubt, according to local reports. Thu, 27 Mar 2008 15:06:45 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324217/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hynix-slashing-2008-capex,-300mm-plans-unaffected?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324133/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hitachi-boxes-Elpida-stake-for-future-sale?dcmp=rss Mar. 26, 2008 - Hitachi has contributed all of its 9.87% ownership stake in Elpida Memory to a new ¥42.24B (US ~$420.8M) retirement benefit trust, paving the way for a future sale of that stake. Wed, 26 Mar 2008 19:22:45 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324133/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Hitachi-boxes-Elpida-stake-for-future-sale?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324011/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Taiwan's-Kyec-Yuan-spinning-off-memory-biz?dcmp=rss Mar. 25, 2008 - Chip test firm King Yuan Electronics Co. (KYEC) is spinning off its memory testing business as an individual company in order to narrow the parent company's focus on logic chip testing operations, according to local reports. Tue, 25 Mar 2008 17:55:48 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/324011/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Taiwan's-Kyec-Yuan-spinning-off-memory-biz?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323971/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Hynix,-Fidelix-foundry-pact-aims-to-boost-200mm-productivity?dcmp=rss Mar. 25, 2008 - Hynix Semiconductor and Korean fabless firm Fidelix have signed a deal centering on the firm's mobile DRAM and PSRAM, and Hynix will take a 10% stake in the company, in a deal that helps Hynix diversify its portfolio and better utilize its 200mm facilities, according to reports. Tue, 25 Mar 2008 17:20:10 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323971/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Hynix,-Fidelix-foundry-pact-aims-to-boost-200mm-productivity?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323941/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Renesas-spending-¥4B-to-expand-MCU-output?dcmp=rss Mar. 25, 2008 - Japan's Renesas Technology says it will invest about ¥4B (US ~$40M) to expand capacity for microcontroller production with a new building at its backend process plant in Beijing, China, in a bid to boost the company's MCU marketshare by 25% globally to 30%. Tue, 25 Mar 2008 16:16:39 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323941/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Renesas-spending-¥4B-to-expand-MCU-output?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323934/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Intel's-Dalian-fab-attracting-LED-work?dcmp=rss Mar. 25, 2008 - Intel's decision to locate a 300mm fab in Dalian, China, has spurred interest in the area for other industries, including LED makers from Taiwan, with Epistar and Everlight Electronics considering building a joint facility there, according to the Taiwan Economic News. Tue, 25 Mar 2008 15:48:48 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323934/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Report:-Intel's-Dalian-fab-attracting-LED-work?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323900/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-Taiwan,-Korea-drove-2007-chip-equipment-sales?dcmp=rss Mar. 25, 2008 - Worldwide sales of semiconductor manufacturing equipment increased about 5.7% in 2007, almost entirely due to a spending splurge by Taiwan firms and to a lesser extent Korea, and underpinned by extensive memory investments and the continued ramp of 300mm wafer manufacturing, according to the latest data from SEMI. Tue, 25 Mar 2008 14:37:48 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323900/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/SEMI:-Taiwan,-Korea-drove-2007-chip-equipment-sales?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323849/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Don't-panic-about-the-2008-IC-outlook...yet?dcmp=rss Mar. 24, 2008 - Worries about a looming US economic recession (if it's not in one already) are causing alarm across many sectors, and some analysts have already downgraded their expectations for 2008 for the IC industry. That's premature, according to market research firm IC Insights, which argues that the results from 1Q08 will set the stage for the rest of the year. Mon, 24 Mar 2008 22:16:01 GMT webmaster@pennwell.com (PennWell Staff) http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323849/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Don't-panic-about-the-2008-IC-outlook...yet?dcmp=rss http://www.solid-state.com/display_article/323722/5/ONART/none/BIZNW/Analyst:-Excess-supplies-to-burst-solar-bubble-in-2009?dcmp=rss Mar. 21, 2008 - Surging growth and interest in solar technology has inflated a "bubble" that's primed to burst