SVTC Technologies Selects Processing Tools from SUSS MicroTec

SUSS MicroTec, Inc. (FWB:SMH)(GER:SMH), a leading supplier of process and test solutions for the semiconductor industry, announces a suite of processing tools that enable new generations of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) has been selected for SVTC Technologies’ facility in Austin, Texas.

As a key supplier to SVTC, SUSS also will provide joint development and support for processes and tooling.

The SUSS toolsets at SVTC include manual and automated platforms to perform lithography and bonding – two of the critical process steps in the creation of MEMS devices. SVTC, a leading independent semiconductor process-development foundry, will use these tools to provide process solutions and a prototyping foundry for emerging MEMS and other devices.

“The SUSS toolset represents the latest technology – giving our customers the opportunity to lead the way for emerging MEMS devices,” said Dave Bergeron, chief executive officer of SVTC.

MEMS devices have been instrumental in creating many state-of-the-art products for the consumer, healthcare, automotive and entertainment industries. Expected to increase at a 13 percent compound annual growth rate through 2010, MEMS are the enabling technology behind many well-known applications such as inkjet printing, automobile air bags, global positioning systems and motion sensing game controllers. Future markets to be opened by MEMS technology include fuel cells, combustion optimization, drug discovery and delivery systems, as well as next-generation navigation and gaming systems.

“We are very pleased to be chosen by a high-quality organization such as SVTC and are excited about the possibilities that this partnership brings to SUSS MicroTec and our customers”, said Dr. Stefan Schneidewind, CEO of SUSS MicroTec. “The MEMS industry has long been a focus for our company. The opportunity to partner with such highly respected forward-looking organization as SVTC will only strengthen our ability to service our growing customer base and our position as a leading equipment supplier to the MEMS market.”

About SVTC

SVTC Technologies, a leading independent semiconductor development foundry, enables the development and commercialization of innovative semiconductor-based technologies and products in an accelerated, cost-effective and IP-secure way. Since joining forces with ATDF, SVTC now offers an even more powerful suite of leading-edge equipment and services, including full-scale 8-inch (200mm) and 12-inch (300mm) process capabilities, advanced CMOS equipment, development support tools and commercialization services. SVTC’s San Jose, Calif., and Austin, Texas, facilities deliver operational excellence and faster time to revenue, allowing customers to create real, manufacturing-ready solutions for rapidly growing markets such as MEMS/MOEMS, photovoltaics, biotech, novel memory, image sensors and high-voltage applications. More information can be found at http://www.svtc.com .