Replies to post #38194 on Advanced Micro Devices Inc (AMD)

[CombJelly]

"would it bring up 300mm faster if they started it with 90nm?"

Maybe. Consider that AMD posted some job listings a bit earlier. One of the jobs was for an engineer to be based in Fishkill to work on designs in 90nm, 65nm and maybe 45nm. Now factor in that IBM has shifted their low-k dielectric from SiLK to a modified Black Diamond, AMD's low-k of choice. Ok, there are a lot of other things that could be different, but it is a possibility that IBM and AMD are using a very similar, if not identical, process at 90nm. It would make sense if they were as close as possible so that AMD could fab out certain parts even at 90nm.

Just something to think about...

[bobs10]

I don't see it as either a one or the other decision. I see no reason why AMD can't bring up one line on 90nm since the equipment is usually backwardsly compatible, and as 65nm evolves bring up other lines. As far as costs go if AMD is profitable at 90nm in fab30 it should be very profitable at 90nm on 300mm with comparble percentages of good chips.

I hope your right, as I said the sooner the better, but I'm still leary that 65nm will be ready by the end of next year. AMD is going to be needing added production desperately by that time and a fall back plan wouldn't be a bad idea.

[jhalada]

sgolds,

I believe the equipment designed for 65nm can do 90nm.

Joe

[jhalada]

sgolds,

would it bring up 300mm faster if they started it with 90nm? It doesn't make much sense to me. Had they designed it that way from the start then it could lead to faster production. However, Fab 36 is being implemented with the 65nm process that AMD and IBM are jointly developing. Changing horses midstream usually causes a project to slip, not to get done faster!

The equipment in Fab36 will more or less be identical to IBM Fishkill. IBM's 90nm is ready, and by 2005 will be mature. 65nm is still under development. If there is a 6 month or 1 year delay, AMD can be producing 90nm parts in the meantime.

Joe