Computer

Intel could run out of machines to manufacture its processors

What if we told you that the chip shortage could continue in the future due to the fact that it depends on a single element? A few weeks ago we told you about the future plans of the creators of the ISA x86, but the truth is that the dependence on Intel and ASML is total and the latter has just poured a bucket of ice water on its partner and its plans to future. What has happened?

The future of semiconductor devices is uncertain and there is enormous uncertainty regarding the development and subsequent use of new manufacturing processes. Especially, not only because of its costs, but also because of the need for specialized tools. And it is that if we are seeing that the game of chairs is increasing and with each new node a manufacturer falls, but things are worse in terms of EUV equipment where ASML has a de facto monopoly.

ASML

Therefore, the Dutch are one of the most reliable sources to talk about the future of the industry, since their clients are the large foundries and this allows them to have a complete vision of the future of the industry. The reason? The machines they sell now will be used to bring you the latest processors and memory a few years from now, so there is complete reliance on ASML by Intel, TSMC and Samsung right now.

Production of ASML’s EUV machines for Intel will be limited

We are not saying it, but this comes from the hand of ASML itself who have stated that the shortage of chipz will last longer than expected. We refer specifically to those that will be made with the new manufacturing nodes. And let’s not forget that the war in Ukraine has severely affected the supply of noble gases that are essential for the manufacture of chips. What has led to the production of machinery for future nodes has been affected.

Intel ASML

On the other hand, Intel and ASML reached a key agreement in which the Dutch would provide the necessary machinery for the expansion plans that Pat Gelsinger is carrying out to turn the company co-founded by Gordon Moore into the largest chip factory in the world. . This not only includes new factories in the US, but also the recently announced factories in Europe.

Intel is interested in new EUV lithography machines based on its 0.55 NA technology. Which have a production capacity of up to 200 wafers per hour, which are used to create the chips under their 20A or 2-nanometer node, which will go into production, at the earliest in 2024. That is why, in the face of problems of ASML production, Pat Gelsinger’s decision has been to send engineers who allow him to get out of the bottleneck in terms of production in which his technological partner finds himself and in the process gain advantages over TSMC.

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