Etec, an Applied Materials Company, designs, manufactures and markets maskmaking equipment solutions that enable the production of the faster, smaller and cheaper semiconductor chips necessary for today’s electronics. Holding a commanding worldwide market share for semiconductor IC mask pattern generation (PG) equipment-equipment that makes semiconductor masks-Etec is widely recognized for its expertise with laser- and electron-beam PG technologies. Today Etec also offers mask inspection systems.

Precision lasers or electron beams in Etec pattern generation systems image the design of just one layer of a semiconductor chip onto a piece of chrome-coated quartz glass-the mask or photomask. After the design has been written on a mask, the mask is then used much like a photographic negative to transfer the circuit patterns onto semiconductor wafers. As many as 28 masks are used to build subsequent layers on the wafer. The patterns on the masks translate into the tiny transistors and electrical circuits that make up each final chip. Etec’s advanced inspection products allow maskmakers to verify accuracy and ensure higher productivity for their customers.

Mask Research and Development
Etec has remained at the forefront of mask pattern generation technology for more than two decades, due to a relentless focus on next-generation technology and pursuit of better ways of solving tough problems to produce leading-edge patterns. The company is recognized as one of the industry’s leading research and development centers-the maskmaking technology developments at Etec are beyond the scope and scale of any other in the world. As device rules continue to shrink and the industry requires ever faster chips, Etec is prepared to meet the challenges of the industry well into the 21st century.

Etec’s advanced research and development activities extend to microcolumns, mask etch, CD SEM and other technologies where activities in our development labs offer interesting potential for future product lines.

Our Opportunity
Etec continues to attract top industry experts, support personnel and college graduates from around the world. At the end of 2000, Etec had more than 1100 employees worldwide. These employees enable Etec to enhance innovation and maintain its industry leadership position. Employees at Etec enjoy the benefits of working in a small-company atmosphere, while at the same time being part of Applied Materials, Inc., the world’s largest semiconductor equipment manufacturer.