Applied Materials just announced the release of its new Applied SmartMove system. The company is billing this system as the “first comprehensive wafer management solution for non-automated 200mm and 300mm fabs.” SmartMove combines Applied Material’s Activity Manager software with a location-aware system for tracking wafers that uses ultrasound and radio frequency technologies. By giving factories additional tracking abilities and control over the movement of wafer lots, SmartMove can allow them to increase their output by 10%.

In a press release, Manfred Kerschbaum, senior vice president of Applied Global Services, commented on the new product:

“The SmartMove system can be a game-changer for customers with mature fabs, delivering the key benefits of robotic handling systems at a fraction of the cost. This end-to-end, non-robotic wafer management system uniquely integrates world-class software, hardware and service into a single, low-risk solution. The SmartMove system is a great example of our commitment to helping customers unlock additional fab efficiency and maximize the value of their existing assets in a very short time.”

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