Samsung Electronics Joins IBM, Chartered, Infineon in Next-Generation Semiconductor Logic Process Development

Mar 8, 2004 | Market News

East Fishkill, N.Y. and Seoul, Korea – March 8, 2004 – Samsung Electronics joined a strategic semiconductor technology development partnership with IBM, Chartered Semiconductor Manufacturing and Infineon Technologies (FSE/NYSE:IFX). Initially, the four companies will focus on 65 nanometer (nm) technology and will extend, over time to include the 45 nm process development.

The technology alliance will reinforce its technology-based design point for next generation logic technologies, thus providing an industry-wide platform for CMOS logic processes.

Joint development takes place at IBM’s 300 mm Advanced Semiconductor Technology Center in East Fishkill, N.Y., which began operation in July of 2003. Each company will have the ability to implement the jointly developed processes in its own manufacturing facilities.

“Samsung is pleased to join this elite partnership, further enhancing technology and supporting services and accelerating market application of cutting edge technologies,” said Dr. Chang Gyu Hwang, President and CEO of Samsung Electronics’ Semiconductor Business, “This alliance is expected to create a technology platform for nano-scale CMOS logic processes, enabling customers to enjoy a broader source of the nextgeneration logic process technologies.”

“We welcome Samsung as an additional strong partner in our partnership and look forward in this now even more powerful alliance pushing the technology roadmap into the future,” said Dr. Andreas von Zitzewitz, Chief Operating Officer Infineon Technologies AG.

A separate agreement will give Samsung license rights to IBM's 90 nm CMOS logic technology. Samsung plans to introduce IBM's proven logic technology to its highly integrated System-On-Chip (SOC) product line such as HD-TVs, DVDPs, and mobile applications. Based on Samsung's SOC business infrastructure, the advanced logic technology will be available to Samsung's internal and external customers, expanding IBM-based technology sourcing.

“The participation of Samsung, a worldwide technology leader, along with our current prestigious partners, makes IBM’s New York-based chip facility the worldwide center of expertise for silicon research and development,” said Dr. John E. Kelly III, senior vice president and group executive, Technology, IBM Systems and Technology Group. “Together we will create a global technology platform, providing clients with consistent chip making methods and multiple sources.”

About Infineon

Infineon Technologies AG, based in Munich, Germany, offers semiconductor and system solutions for the automotive and industrial sectors, for applications in the wired communications markets, secure mobile solutions and memory products. In fiscal year 2003 (ending September), the company achieved sales of Euro 6.15 billion with about 32,300 employees world-wide. Infineon is listed on the DAX index of the Frankfurt Stock Exchange and on the New York Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: IFX). Further information is available at www.infineon.com.

IBM Contact: Carrie Altieri (845) 892 5464

Information Number

INFCPR200403-050