ABSTRACT

This chapter discusses the obstacles any new technology must overcome to be commercially successful with specific references to the challenges confronting Si-molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Rather the purpose is to acquaint those involved primarily with research of the needs and perspective of the industrial environment. The chapter deals with the requirements and restraints posed by high-volume production and the constant pressure to reduce prices. The cost and technology requirements have made automation a necessity and it is accepted and expected in the industry. As new technologies and materials emerge and more is learned about the effect of manufacturing processes and materials on health, new health and safety standards are being implemented. Semiconductor process equipment manufacturers are constantly under pressure from the electronics companies to develop equipment with better process control and lower slice manufacturing costs. There must be simultaneous development of equipment, process technology, continually decreasing production costs, and new, volume product demands to fuel this trend.