Semiconductor manufacturing: Off to a slower start

摘要

Makers of semiconductor-manufacturing equipment are confronting a slight drop in capital-equipment purchases. But indications are that they are prepared for the slowdown. "We're looking at a 5% decline in purchases compared to last year, but we expected this," explains Dan Tracy, senior director of industry research and statistics for SEMI. "We recognize that bookings peaked late last year and have flattened out. But we expect to see some improvement in bookings going forward." One reason for continued strength in the area is mat the conversion to 300-mm fabrication lines is going strong, notes Tracy.