Press release - Veldhoven, the Netherlands, June 13, 2002
ASML today announced that Headway Technologies, a TDK Group Company that designs and manufactures recording heads for hard disk drives, selected an ASML Step & Scan imaging tool for use in the production of thin film heads. The ASML PAS 5500/800 DUV Step & Scan imaging system will be installed in the Headway facility in Milpitas, California in July 2002.
As a result of the Headway purchase, ASML now works with the top three suppliers in the thin film head industry.
"ASML has proven expertise in both step & scan imaging solutions and the thin head film industry. Its unique business approach – a combination of advanced solutions and in-depth, local support structure – were key to the Headway decision," said Skip Retzer, director of materials and procurement, Headway Technologies. "We have confidence that the ASML PAS 5500/800 and future ASML tools will be instrumental in developing Headway's next-generation products."
"As with all specialized industries, companies in the thin film head market require advanced technical solutions optimized for specific needs. This customization provides our customers with a competitive edge," said Eduard Hoeberichts, president, Special Applications, ASML. "ASML worked with Headway Technologies to address its specific requirements for processing ceramic substrates, as well as to provide industry leading overlay and the colinearity performance required for the advanced thin film head designs."
About ASML
About the ASML PAS 5500/800
