With a cautious upturn underway, attention is being focused on the chip manufacturers who are preparing new 300mm fabs for initial production. The main thrust is coming from the plethora of DRAM manufacturers around the world. Foundries whether pure play or quasi, have been unwilling to add capacity to existing facilities that have been in operation just as the last downturn began. However, with capacity utilisation's approaching saturation point for the leading edge 130nm node, tool installs are expected to start again soon. One concern that applies to both sectors is the potential for over capacity, which we cover here in detail.
 300mm acitvity report