TOKYO, Japan, April 16, 2007 – Advantest Corporation (TSE: 6857, NYSE: ATE), the world’s leading supplier of semiconductor test equipment, announced that it has been named to the 2006 list of Best Customer-Rated Equipment Suppliers in China, based on direct customer feedback compiled by leading semiconductor market-research firm VLSI Research Inc. In particular, the survey found that Advantest received its highest ratings in the area of build quality.
Advantest develops and manufactures complete test solutions for SoC, logic and memory semiconductor devices, and is the only ATE company to provide totally integrated test cell solutions that are designed and manufactured in-house. Advantest’s test cells -- comprised of testers, handlers, device interfaces, and software – offer the industry’s highest levels of integrity and compatibility.
“Advantest’s success in China provides an ideal example of how global customers benefit from working with a company that is so well managed and deeply committed to systematic product innovation and high quality standards,” said VLSI Research Inc’s president, Risto Puhakka. “Throughout the semiconductor industry’s various business cycles, Advantest has continued to maintain an aggressive R&D program, which in turn has enabled them to lead the industry by providing a strong, steady flow of leading-edge systems to every leading fab throughout the world. Plus, they continue to refine their manufacturing processes and to ensure high quality. In addition, their commitment to the Chinese semiconductor market is quite evident. ”
Toshio Maruyama, president and CEO of Advantest Corporation, noted that the recent results illustrate the success of the company’s efforts to strategically expand its reach in new markets. “We are very pleased with the survey feedback from our customers in China and with their recognition of our high quality products. Advantest is committed to a continuous evolution of equipment that yields the high-value, cost-effective test solutions our customers demand.
VLSI Research Inc recently published the list of the top 15 of 64 semiconductor equipment suppliers as rated by equipment users in China during the spring of 2006. Data is based on the annual customer satisfaction survey covering 95% of the world’s total semiconductor market. The survey asked equipment users to rate equipment suppliers on thirteen criteria. Cost of ownership, uptime, software, build quality, usable throughput, quality of results, and product performance were the equipment performance measures. Customer service measures included process support, field engineering support, spares support, support after sales, technical leadership in the supplier’s field, and the supplier’s overall commitment to supporting its customers’ needs.
The VLSI Research annual Customer Satisfaction Survey on Chip Making Equipment is the only publicly available opportunity for chip manufacturers to provide feedback on their suppliers.
About Advantest
Advantest Corporation is the world’s leading supplier of automatic test equipment to the semiconductor industry. Advantest’s SoC, logic, memory, mixed-signal and RF testers and device handlers are integrated into the most advanced semiconductor fabrication lines in the world. Founded in Tokyo in 1954, Advantest established its North American subsidiary in 1982 and its European subsidiary in 1984. More information is available at www.advantest.com
