The semiconductor industry is the cornerstone of modern technology and economic development, driving innovation in smartphones, artificial intelligence, 5G, IoT, and autonomous vehicles. Turning a silicon into a chip requires high-tech equipment and complex process of lithography, etching, deposition, testing, and packaging. As semiconductor technology evolves, advanced manufacturing requires higher precision, automation, and communication capabilities. Semiconductor equipment is not only key to industry competitiveness but also the propelling force for technological innovation and yield increases.
To achieve data integration and efficient production, standardized communication protocols such as SECS/GEM, GEM 300, and Interface A enable seamless communication between equipment and host systems for real-time monitoring, data collection, remote operation, and precise control. SECS/GEM is a global equipment communication standard established by Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International (SEMI). GEM 300 is an extension based on SECS/GEM, specifically applied in 300 mm wafer manufacturing processes, allowing efficient, stable production through standardized communication protocols and interfaces.
Deploying Delta’s SECS/GEM Software Solution
Ta Liang Technology CO., LTD., a semiconductor equipment manufactuer headquartered in Taoyuan, Taiwan, primarily develops and sells metrology, AOI, and automation equipment. Its product line extensively covers both front-end and back-end processes, and it has also stepped into the Chip-on-Wafer-on-Substrate (CoWoS) packaging field. To meet the growing demand for advanced packaging manufacturing, Ta Liang Technology has recently deployed Delta's DIASECS-GEM Software Solution, providing semiconductor equipment with SECS/GEM and GEM 300 standards for end users.
Delta’s DIASECS-GEM Software Solution includes a Library that supports the GEM 300 standard. The Library automatically processes the message into the GEM standard, with no need to understand designated message format, allowing the software developer newcomers at Ta Liang Technology to get started easily and rapidly. The Library is also user-friendly and customizable for various applications. In addition, Delta puts great efforts in optimizing the DIASECS-GEM software interface design, prioritizing the user experience, practicality, and functionality. Delta has gathered feedback from Ta Liang Technology and continuously upgrades the interface, providing a more intuitive, visually appealing, and efficient software. Gary Lee, COO of Ta Liang Technology, stated, “Delta’s SECS team did a great job on the interface, taking functional modules, color schemes, and font sizes into account. This helps us collaborate faster and more easily for launching a consistent and comprehensive interface.”
Diversified, Value-Added Services Strengthen a Long-Term Partnership
In addition to helping Ta Liang Technology swiftly import SECS/GEM standards in their semiconductor equipment, Delta has provided on-site training courses, covering software installation and configuration, product technical knowledge, troubleshooting, software development, and maintenance. After a series of training sessions and technical exchanges with Delta’s field application engineers, Ta Liang Technology significantly accelerated equipment verification testing and shipping efficiency. This backs up wafer manufacturers in scaling up production and enhancing yields.
Semiconductor technology develops at a rapid pace, and the SECS/GEM standard is updated constantly. Manufacturers must ensure their equipment keeps up with the latest technical requirements. As a world-class provider of industrial automation solutions, Delta continues to innovate its SECS/GEM software products in response to standard updates, meeting the needs of advanced manufacturing and equipment management. "Delta provides us with the basic framework for SECS/GEM upgrades, which not only facilitates alignment between Delta and Ta Liang Technology, but also accelerates the learning curve." Gary added.
Helping the Semiconductor Industry Enhance Market Competitiveness
Besides DIASECS-GEM Software, Ta Liang Technology has also adopted Delta’s Linear Pocket Actuator LPL Series in their semiconductor metrology equipment. Previously, the company used Japanese hollow shaft motor solutions, which over time exhibited R-axis precision deviation issues. To achieve precise speed control on both the Z-axis and R-axis, Ta Liang Technology introduced Delta's Linear Pocket Actuator LPL Series which integrates linear motors, linear encoders, and rails in one unit. It not only offers high control precision, lightweight compact size, and easy installation, but also perfectly meets customers' inspection needs.
Delta’s DIASECS-GEM Software Solution combined with Linear Pocket Actuator LPL Series and the key technology and integration capabilities of semiconductor machine makers, helps wafer manufacturers overcome challenges such as complicated processes, diverse equipment, and hard-to-integrate data, achieving smart, efficient production. The semiconductor industry is the cornerstone of modern technology and economic development, driving innovation in smartphones, artificial intelligence, 5G, IoT, and autonomous vehicles. Turning a silicon into a chip requires high-tech equipment and complex process of lithography, etching, deposition, testing, and packaging. As semiconductor technology evolves, advanced manufacturing requires higher precision, automation, and communication capabilities. Semiconductor equipment is not only key to industry competitiveness but also the propelling force for technological innovation and yield increases.