Intel Accelerates 1.8nm (18A) Production Schedule, Aiming for Process Dominance in Late 2024

Intel is making significant strides in its production schedule, aiming to establish dominance in the semiconductor industry with its 1.8nm (18A) chips by late 2024. The company recently launched its plans during the Innovation 2023 conference, where it showcased the 14th Gen Meteor Lake mobility family and discussed the availability of the future Extreme Ultraviolet (EUV) node.

While many may have overlooked this detail, Intel’s update on the high-NA EUV machines is crucial. The tech giant intends to introduce the 20A process in early to mid-2024, followed by the volume production of 18A chips in the latter half of the same year. What makes this development even more interesting is Intel’s decision to employ the 18A process for the development and validation of its new High-NA machines.

The High Numerical Aperture (High-NA) machines represent the next generation of EUV photolithography machines and are set to play a vital role in producing advanced process nodes below 2nm. These scanners utilize 0.55 numerical aperture optics, a significant improvement over the 0.33 NA optics used in their predecessors.

For Intel, the introduction of High-NA machines will coincide with the utilization of the 18A (1.8nm) process node. This alignment indicates that Intel is positioning itself to leverage these advanced technologies to maintain its competitive edge in the semiconductor market.

Fortunately for Intel, the roadmap for these advancements has been expedited. The progress made on the 18A (1.8nm) node suggests that mass production could commence as early as the second half of 2024, a year ahead of the initial timeline. It is worth noting that Intel has clarified that the High-NA machines will not be utilized in the production plans for 18A but will instead be reserved for future production under the name “Intel Next.”

These developments mark a significant milestone for Intel as it strives to regain its dominance in the semiconductor industry. With the accelerated production schedule and the integration of High-NA machines, Intel aims to solidify its position as a leader in advanced process nodes. As the company continues to innovate and push the boundaries of technology, the future looks promising for Intel and its pursuit of process dominance.

Source: AnandTech

Background Information

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About Intel:

Intel Corporation, a global technology leader, is for its semiconductor innovations that power computing and communication devices worldwide. As a pioneer in microprocessor technology, Intel has left an indelible mark on the evolution of computing with its processors that drive everything from PCs to data centers and beyond. With a history of advancements, Intel's relentless pursuit of innovation continues to shape the digital landscape, offering solutions that empower businesses and individuals to achieve new levels of productivity and connectivity.

  

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Technology Explained

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EUV: Extreme Ultraviolet Lithography (EUV or EUVL) is an advanced semiconductor manufacturing technique that employs extremely short wavelengths of light in the extreme ultraviolet spectrum to create intricate patterns on silicon wafers. Utilizing a wavelength around 13.5 nanometers, significantly shorter than traditional lithography methods, EUVL enables the production of smaller and more densely packed integrated circuits, enhancing the performance and efficiency of modern microprocessors and memory chips.

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