- The SLX is launched to meet the rising demand for low-end photomasks for the semiconductor industry
- The mask writer is based on the same technology as the display mask writers
Mycronic has launched SLX, a new laser-based mask writer for the semiconductor industry. The first shipment is expected around year-end 2020.
About SLX
The SLX is launched to meet a rising demand for low-end photomasks for the semiconductor industry driven by long term trends as well as to support an upcoming replacement and modernization cycle.
The mask writer is based on the same technology as the display mask writers, which includes the recently launched Evo control platform. A technology platform shared between the display and semiconductor mask writers leverages synergies within current and future technology development and utilization of the existing service organization
The company’s official release stated that approximately 600,000 photomasks are produced yearly to support the semiconductor industry and 70-75% of the masks are low-end, written by laser-based mask writers. These mask writers thus remain very important in the production of semiconductors.
“We have had a close interaction with leading players in the semiconductor industry and it is clear that we can offer customers a modern, attractive and cost-effective solution for the laser-based mask writer segment,” said Charlott Samuelsson, senior VP, Pattern Generators.
It is estimated that the market will be needing 5-8 new writers per year in the coming years. Mycronic currently offers new mask writers for the manufacture of photomasks within different areas of application. Mycronic also services the existing installed base of the semiconductor mask writers Sigma and Omega.
