SMIC moves to 130nm production

Chip maker Semiconductor Mfg Int. Corp. (SMIC) is scheduled to begin volume production at its 130nm line later this year.

Joanne Itow of Semico Research says SMIC's move is necessary in shifting to 90nm processes and beyond. "It's critical to get testing intertwined with the whole process," she explains.

Currently, SMIC outsources assembly and testing processes to other companies, including GAPT Amkor, KLT, Nantong Fujitsu, STATSChipPac (Shanghai) and UTAC (Shanghai). As the company commences its 130nm production, it will be providing ist own assembly and testing services, and offering custom services. However, according to Calvin Chin, manager of the strategic ventures division at SMIC, these companies will still remain valuable partners of the company.