Technology acceleration: the suppliers' challenge

The technology acceleration of the ITRS Roadmap has many implications on both the semiconductor supplier community and the manufacturers. This work examines the impact of technology acceleration on the suppliers, the manufacturers of tools, materials, and masks. From an Industry perspective, the development and product life cycle are examined with respect to the resources required and the return on investment. Historical information is available regarding the length of time required to develop a manufacturing worthy product. Resource requirement estimates are available, so it is possible to develop an investment curve for product development. Similarly, estimates of total product sales provide the basis of the investment recovery scenario. From these evaluations, the Industry return on investment can be projected. It is possible to evaluate the impact of changes in technology on suppliers as the industry moved from 248nm to 193nm.