Applied Materials unveils advanced chip defect analysis system

Published 19/02/2025, 22:14
© Reuters

SANTA CLARA, Calif. - Applied Materials, Inc. (AMAT), a prominent player in the Semiconductors industry with a market capitalization of $141.6 billion, has launched the SEMVision™ H20 system, a new defect review tool designed to enhance the analysis of nanoscale defects in cutting-edge semiconductor chips. According to InvestingPro data, the company maintains strong financial health with a robust gross profit margin of 47.7%. This system integrates highly sensitive electron beam (eBeam) technology with advanced artificial intelligence (AI) image recognition, aiming to improve the speed and accuracy of defect detection in the manufacturing of the world’s most sophisticated chips.

The SEMVision™ H20 system addresses the challenges posed by the angstrom era of chip manufacturing, where distinguishing true defects from false alarms has become increasingly difficult due to the minuscule size of chip features. The latest eBeam technology is particularly crucial for intricate 3D architectures, such as the 2nm logic chips and denser DRAM and 3D NAND memories.

Keith Wells, Group Vice President of Imaging and Process Control at Applied Materials, highlighted the system’s ability to differentiate meaningful data from the vast amounts of information produced by inspection tools. He pointed out that the SEMVision™ H20’s combination of AI and eBeam technology allows for rapid identification of the smallest defects buried within 3D device structures, which can lead to improved factory cycle times and yields.

The SEMVision™ H20 system boasts two key innovations: the second-generation cold field emission ( CFE (EBR:CFEB)) technology, which provides up to 50 percent better resolution and up to 10 times faster imaging speed than conventional thermal field emission (TFE) technology; and deep learning AI image models that effectively distinguish between real and nuisance defects.

Applied Materials claims that the SEMVision™ H20 system can deliver results three times faster than the most advanced current techniques. It has already been adopted by leading logic and memory chipmakers for their emerging technology nodes. This innovation comes as the company generates annual revenue of $27.6 billion, demonstrating its significant market presence. Discover more detailed insights about Applied Materials’ financial performance and growth potential with a comprehensive Pro Research Report, available exclusively on InvestingPro.

Applied Materials, Inc., listed on (NASDAQ:AMAT), is recognized as a leader in materials engineering solutions, vital for the production of nearly every new chip and advanced display. The company’s innovations are said to be instrumental in shaping a better future through the transformation of material possibilities into reality. InvestingPro analysis indicates the company is currently trading near its Fair Value, with 12 additional exclusive ProTips available to subscribers, covering everything from dividend history to management effectiveness.

This news is based on a press release statement from Applied Materials, Inc., which provided the details regarding the SEMVision™ H20 system and its capabilities.

In other recent news, Lam Research Corp (NASDAQ:LRCX) introduced two new tools aimed at enhancing AI chip production, reflecting the growing demand for advanced semiconductor technologies. The ALTUS Halo, a deposition tool, and Akara, an etching tool, are designed to improve chip performance and production efficiency. This move aligns with Lam Research’s earlier revenue projections that exceeded market expectations, indicating a positive trajectory for the company amid the semiconductor demand surge.

Meanwhile, Applied Materials has been the subject of multiple analyst evaluations. Stifel maintained a Buy rating with a $235 price target, citing the company’s ability to sustain growth despite challenges. Needham also kept a Buy rating but adjusted its target to $195, highlighting potential early recovery from market downturns. Craig-Hallum reduced its target to $205, maintaining a Buy rating and noting the company’s strategic positioning in AI and semiconductor technology. Citi increased its target to $202, emphasizing the company’s resilience amid market fluctuations and projecting future growth in leading-edge technologies. These developments underscore the dynamic landscape in the semiconductor industry and the strategic maneuvers by key players like Lam Research and Applied Materials.

This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.

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