Microsoft to Launch a Solution for Semiconductor Manufacturing

Microsoft Corp. today announced its intent to support adoption of the Interface A standard for the semiconductor industry by developing architectural guidance that will allow chipmakers, equipment vendors, independent solutions vendors (ISVs) and systems integrators (SIs) to deliver Microsoft®-based solutions that support the standard.

"Interface A is rapidly emerging as the dominant high-speed data highway for chipmakers to bring new processes online more quickly and improve process performance, and ISMI will continue to play a leadership role in driving industry adoption." said Harvey Wohlwend, project manager for e-manufacturing at ISMI (International SEMATECH Manufacturing Initiative).

The Interface A standard, based on XML Web services, allows chipmakers access to more complete and useful data for applications such as equipment diagnostics and advanced process control. Microsoft's .NET technology helps enable the data and information sharing that Interface A solutions facilitate between fab equipment, factory information and control systems.

To help drive adoption, Microsoft is collaborating with industry-leading standards bodies, chip manufacturers and semiconductor equipment manufacturers, and is advising partners on how to best leverage the Microsoft platform to build solutions that support Interface A.

Microsoft's .NET technology, which improves communication and collaboration across the manufacturing enterprise by connecting devices, systems and people, is an ideal software platform for solutions based on the Interface A standard.

"Microsoft brings technology and expertise to the table that can assist partners in bringing Interface A solutions to market," said John McCallum, high-tech industry manager for the Manufacturing Industry Unit at Microsoft.

To help improve operational efficiency for high-tech manufacturers worldwide, Microsoft continues to offer guidance and enabling technologies that allow partners to deliver enterprise-ready solutions that address critical customer needs. Guidance on developing Interface A solutions on the Microsoft platform is free to all Microsoft Gold Certified Partners.