Semiconductor-Equipment Market Forecast To Grow 8.1%

Compiled ByDeborah Austin Reversing last year's lack of technology investment, orders will accelerate during 2002, spurring recovery and 8.1% growth of the worldwide semiconductor-equipment market, forecasts "The Global Market for Equipment and Materials for IC (Integrated Circuit) Manufacturing," a recently issued report from market research firm The Information Network, New Tripoli, Penn. The report cites support for smaller geometrics, new materials and wafer-size increases to 300 mm, as outlined in the newest International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors (ITRS), as drivers of increased capital spending by device manufacturers. ITRS identifies the industry's technical challenges and is sponsored by global semiconductor organizations. Also, utilization rates will increase for devices at 0.2 microns and below, forecasts the report. "Tools sold in 1999 and 2000 had technology capabilities primarily at the 180nm [nanometer] node. IC manufacturers who didn't buy in 2001 will need to play 'catch-up' in 2002 on technology purchases at the 130nm mode to be competitive," says Information Network President Robert Castellano.