Advantest's MEMS switch development for high-speed testers

The MEMS switch development for which Advantest received the award was carried out in collaboration with Tohoku University's Esashi Laboratory, who are world leaders in MEMS technology. MEMS technology uses semiconductor fabrication techniques to create microscopic 3D structures and, by combining these methods with the high-frequency technologies it has accumulated to date, Advantest was able to succeed in producing tiny switches that can be used for the low-loss switching of large-bandwidth signals of 10GHz or more. The incorporation of these MEMS switches in semiconductor test systems has enabled high-speed signal test that was not possible with conventional systems' mechanical and semiconductor switches.
These MEMS switches are also integrated within the company's 6.5Gbps digital module (announced in December 2005) for use in the T2000 test system, leading to enhanced efficiency in the testing of devices that employ high-speed serial buses. It is in recognition of such results that Advantest has been awarded the commendation.

About the IEEJ

Founded in 1888, the IEEJ is an association of scholars and engineers who carry out, and publish the results of, research and studies in the general electrical science field. Its membership totals 24,000 and comprises of researchers, engineers and students, from both the corporate and academic sectors.

About the award for advances in electrical science

The award has a history dating back to 1942. It is presented to persons who develop or employ new concepts, theories, materials, devices, systems or methods in the electrical science field, or for outstanding results in the development or improvement of electrical products or equipment. Note: All information supplied in this release is correct at the time of publication, but may be subject to change without warning.

About Advantest

Advantest Corporation is the world's leading automatic test equipment supplier to the semiconductor industry, and also produces electronic and optoelectronic instruments and systems. A global company, Advantest has long offered total ATE solutions, and serves the industry in every component of semiconductor test: tester, handler, mechanical and electrical interfaces, and software. Its logic, memory, mixed-signal and RF testers and device handlers are integrated into the most advanced semiconductor production lines in the world. Founded in Tokyo in 1954, Advantest established its first subsidiary in 1982, in the USA, and now has 43 subsidiaries worldwide. Among them, Advantest America, Inc. is based in Santa Clara, CA, and Advantest (Europe) GmbH is based in Munich, Germany. More information is available at http://www.advantest.co.jp/