GlobalFoundries says 14nm node is on track

Posted on Wednesday, December 31 2014 @ 14:12 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
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Semiconductor analyst Robert Maire of Semiwatch recently told Barrons that GlobalFoundries' 14nm process seems to have hit a delay as the company has stopped deliveries of 14nm tools to its fab and is instead having the tools housed at a nearby warehouse. Maire heard rumors that the fabs aren't ready and that GlobalFoundries may have to delay its 14nm rollout by one to two quarters:
“We have confirmed through numerous sources that over the last two weeks Global Foundries has stopped deliveries of tools for 14nm to its fab and instead is having the tools housed at a nearby warehouse,” writes Maire. “We hear that tool makers are told that the fab facilities are not ready and it sounds like a one to two quarter delay,” writes Maire. “Some tool makers are speculating that the delay could also be related to financial issues or yield issues or a host of other odd rumors.”
GlobalFoundries spokesperson Jason Gorss refutes the rumors and claims the logistical move is in no way related to delays but is part of the company's strategy to acquire tools ahead of facility readiness. He claims 14nm is on track and that they've housed the tools at a nearby warehouse to facilitate a fast install
Our 14nm plan has not changed. A key part of the strategy is to order tools ahead of facility readiness to enable the fastest possible ramp. Due to the large number of tools coming in, we have our vendors stage these tools at a nearby warehouse to facilitate a fast install. This logistical move is in no way related to yield challenges or a delay in our technology ramp and is, in fact, quite the opposite. Our Fab 8 ramp is on track and we have yielding customer product on our 14nm technology.


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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