

The strange way the world's fastest microchips are made
45 snips Nov 13, 2024
Discover the fascinating world of extreme ultraviolet lithography, a breakthrough technology that powers the most advanced microchips. This method, involving a powerful laser and molten tin, creates intricate circuits as fine as a strand of DNA. Learn about the unique journey of this innovation, from skepticism in U.S. labs to its domination by a Dutch company. Explore the high stakes of microchip technology, its impact on AI, and the intense geopolitical competition driving advancements in this essential industry.
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Early Stages of EUV Lithography
- Andy Haverluck, while at Lawrence Livermore National Labs, had the idea to use extreme ultraviolet light for etching microchips.
- His idea, initially met with skepticism, gained traction after Bill Brinkman from AT&T Bell Labs showed interest.
Securing Funding for EUV Research
- Proving a technology's feasibility requires significant investment and resources.
- Government funding played a crucial role in the initial development of EUV lithography.
Government and Private Sector Partnership
- The US government, through national labs, partnered with private companies to explore commercial uses for research.
- This collaboration, including research on EUV lithography, received seed money from Congress.