Credence, Fico and Amkor Partner to Create New Method for Production Testing Flash Memory

Credence Systems Corp. (Fremont, CA) today announced a technology alliance with Fico b.v. and Amkor Technology (West Chester, PA), resulting in the creation of an in-line flash memory test system.

Amkor, a provider of semiconductor packaging technology, integrated a KALOS non-volatile memory test system from Credence, with a Fico strip-based test handler to improve the test process. Using KALOS in conjunction with the Fico test handler allows Amkor to test a strip of flash memory devices without separating them from the leadframe or strip. This is the Matrix Test manufacturing approach.

Credence estimates Matrix Test can provide up to 30% reduction in capital cost, use 30% less floor space and lead to more than 50% faster index time. It is appropriate for a large variety of package types, and applies to any manufacturing processes where parts are assembled in strips.

Amkor has been using the combination of KALOS and the Fico test handler since February at its facility in Manila, the Philippines. With it, Amkor can currently test 10 devices in parallel and expects to be able to test 25 in parallel within a few weeks. Amkor eventually hopes to test 50 devices in parallel using this combination.

Amkor Technology, Inc. is an independent provider of semiconductor packaging and test services. The company offers a complete set of services including deep submicron wafer fabrication, wafer probe testing, IC packaging assembly and design, final testing, burn-in, characterization and reliability testing.

Fico is a provider of assembly equipment, processes, and materials, offering a full range of molding systems, trim and form systems, and integrated assembly lines. It also features solutions for BGA, matrix leadframes, chip modules for SMART cards, ultra thin packages and other package types. Fico is part of BE Semiconductor Industries group of companies

Credence Systems makes automatic test equipment (ATE) for the worldwide semiconductor industry. The company offers a wide range of products with test capabilities for digital, mixed-signals and memory semiconductors.

Credence Systems Corp. Phone: 510/623-4774