Hsinchu, Taiwan-based semiconductor manufacturing foundry United Microelectronics Corp (UMC) has joined Austin, Texas-based Sematech, the consortium of semiconductor manufacturers focused on cooperative R&D for advanced semiconductor technology.

The move is to focus on R&D for exploratory technologies on 300mm wafers, including the 22nm manufacturing node and smaller process generations,

Sematech noted that strong synergies have been created to drive the cooperation with UMC, especially with Sematech progress with its advanced technology and manufacturing programs in Albany and Austin, as well as with suppliers, universities, and research institutes around the world.

The two parties believe UMC is a natural partner for Sematech given its large-scale 300mm production for 90- and 65nm foundry products. In addition, UMC reminded it is currently qualifying its 45-/40nm process technology, and is making good progress on 32nm/28nm technology.

Dr. Shih-Wei Sun, CEO of UMC said partnering with Sematech is a win-win situation for both organizations. "The combination of UMC's 300mm manufacturing experience and process technology expertise and Sematech's wealth of knowledge in the field of semiconductor R&D will help the industry better handle the challenges of migration to next generation processes," he said in a statement.

He also noted that UMC is excited about Sematech's commitment to 300mm exploratory R&D and looks forward to passing the benefits of this technology relationship to customers.

"UMC will be an important partner in accelerating the progress of R&D innovations into manufacturing solutions," added Sematech president and CEO Dr. Michael Polcari.

By Ann Steffora Mutschler, Senior Editor - Electronic News