The demand for ASML’s latest generation of High-NA EUV lithography machines is soaring, with semiconductor manufacturers keen to adopt these advanced systems. According to a new report, Intel has secured a significant edge by purchasing all of ASML’s production capacity for one year.
Intel Secures High-NA EUV Machines Intel, like other major chipmakers, has a strong relationship with ASML, the Dutch manufacturer of lithography machines. The High-NA EUV machines are crucial for the next decade of semiconductor manufacturing, allowing for smaller transistors and higher chip density. According to The Elec, Intel has purchased all of ASML’s production capacity for High-NA EUV machines through the first half of next year.
For those unfamiliar with these machines, High-NA EUV lithography systems can produce transistors 1.7 times smaller than current EUV machines, potentially increasing chip density by 2.9 times. ASML’s Twinscan EXE High-NA EUV lithography machines are essential for developing 2nm and smaller process technologies, offering chipmakers a competitive edge.
Intel’s Plan for Advanced Process Technologies Intel has already installed the first High-NA EUV machine from ASML in its U.S. facility. The report suggests that Intel will use these machines for its upcoming 18A (1.8nm) and 14A (1.4nm) process technologies, aiming to outpace competitors in the foundry market. Each High-NA EUV machine costs around $400 million, indicating that Intel’s order is worth at least $2 billion.
Other companies, such as Samsung and SK Hynix, are expected to start receiving High-NA EUV machines in the second half of next year. However, TSMC, a leading chipmaker, has indicated that it does not require High-NA EUV machines for its 1.6nm or A16 process technologies.
Intel’s acquisition of all of ASML’s production capacity for High-NA EUV machines demonstrates the company’s commitment to leading the charge in advanced semiconductor manufacturing. The move highlights the competitive landscape in the industry and the critical role that cutting-edge technology plays in maintaining a market advantage.
