KUALA LUMPUR (May 8): Global silicon wafer shipments increased slightly during the first quarter of 2012 to 2.03 billion square inches from 2.01 billion inches in the previous quarter according to the US-based Semiconductor Equipment Manufacturers Industry asscociation’s (SEMI) Silicon Manufacturers Group (SMG) quarterly analysis.
In a statement on its website on May 7, SEMI SMG chairman Dr Bruec Kellerman said the first quarter of the year tends to be a time for seasonal softness for silicon shipment volume, though quarterly shipments did improve some compared to the fourth quarter.
"With modest growth forecasted for the semiconductor industry in 2012, we are optimistic that positive momentum will continue for silicon shipments,” he said.
Silicon wafers are building material for semiconductors, which in turn are vital components of electronic goods, computers, telecommunications products and consumer electronics.
The Silicon Manufacturers Group acts as an independent special interest group within the SEMI structure and is open to SEMI members involved in manufacturing polycrystalline silicon, monocrystalline silicon or silicon wafers (e.g., as cut, polished, epi, etc.).