Schlumberger Launches RDX2400 for RDRAM Test

Advanced memory technologies are needed to keep pace with accelerating generations of microprocessors and controllers in demand for advanced end-user devices including high performance PCs and servers, gaming consoles, and communication products. However, the new memory technologies place daunting requirements on semiconductor manufacturers and equipment suppliers to implement cost-effective test with high performance standards.

To meet the advanced memory requirements Schlumberger Limited (ATE - San Jose, CA), a unit of the Test & Transactions business segment of Schlumberger today introduced the RDX2400 high productivity RDRAM device test system, the next generation member of the company's series for testing RDRAM components. The RDX2400 expands productivity to 64 parallel sites and successfully tests at speeds up to 1.066 Gb/s to match manufacturing needs as high volume production of the advanced memories ramps.

"RDRAM manufacturers can not afford to compromise on any one of the four critical attributes (speed, accuracy, throughput and equipment) in order to achieve the lowest cost of test," stated Jackie Tubis, president of Schlumberger Automated Test Equipment. "As high volume production accelerates to meet the growing market demand for these high-performance memories, excellence in these productivity measurements becomes ever more valuable to manufacturers."

For RDRAM to proliferate as a mainstream memory product, RDRAM test must combine superior performance with maximum productivity. However, productivity for the test of advanced memories is now measured in new ways. While design specifications dictate high speed and accuracy levels, throughput is dependent on shortened test times and high equipment utilization rates in addition to the standard measure, the number of parallel sites. Utilization is highly dependent on the ease and frequency of calibration.

The RDX2400 is the newest addition to the Schlumberger RDRAM test series which includes a fully compatible series of products and services that support the rapid transition from RDRAM designs to characterization and production. Identical tester operation from design validation through production testing greatly simplifies and shrinks the RDRAM device development cycle. Additionally, SABER (Schlumberger Advanced Business Engineering Resources) provides skilled business and engineering resources to assist memory manufacturers' transition to the new technology.

Schlumberger provides comprehensive systems and services for testing semiconductor devices. It also offers measurement systems for front-end applications, as well as equipment to test complete electronic assemblies and systems for the telecommunications industry.

Schlumberger Test and Transactions provides smart card-based solutions; semiconductor test, metrology and handling systems and services; and corporate IP and network solutions to customers throughout the world.

Schlumberger ATE Phone: 408-501-7017