Analyzed: the 450mm fab dilemma

Posted on Saturday, December 04 2010 @ 8:45 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
EE Times takes a closer look at the 450mm development dilemma, you can read it over here.
The implications of several semiconductor industry factors that I detailed in part one of this series of articles are far-reaching. With the industry in a difficult situation, with little product innovation from the rest of the industry and relatively poor financial performance given 300-mm product pricing, there is insufficient discretionary funding to develop a 450-mm generation of products to further the cause of Moore's Law.

The industry is still reeling from its $14 billion investment in 300-mm, for which returns are still not achieved. The performance of these stocks has underperformed the market and technology companies since 2006. Therefore, financial markets are not going to be ready to provide the financing and capital required to develop the 450 mm generation. The companies do not have the financial capability to develop the next wafer size generation.


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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