RVSI gets order for semiconductor-inspection systems

AUGUST 21--The Semiconductor Equipment Group of Robotic Vision Systems Inc. (RVSI; Canton, MA; www.rvsi.com) has received an order for multiple semiconductor-inspection systems from an Asian-based manufacturer of connectors for microprocessors. Delivery is expected to occur during August.

Machine-vision-based semiconductor-inspection systems are used by chip manufacturers to examine packaged integrated circuits. RVSI's systems check to ensure that leads or ball-grid arrays on finished integrated circuits meet specification and also perform package visual inspection to find surface defects on parts.

"We are now seeing heightened interest for lead scanning to support expected higher PC sales driven by the introduction of new, higher-speed, lower-cost chip sets, aggressive computer pricing, and the introduction of Microsoft's Windows XP operating system," said Michael Gray, vice president--sales and marketing of RVSI Electronics. "This multi-unit lead scanner order is from a manufacturer of connectors for microprocessors. The fortunes of connector companies are tied directly to rises and falls in PC demand. All of the sectors supporting PC manufacturers are showing increased quote activity; this is the first order as a result of that heightened activity."