To meet the needs of smart factories, production equipment information must be collected and stored in a central database so that real-time analyses and management can be conducted.

In the early days, due to the dearth of OSAT industry production equipment that met Semiconductor Equipment Communication Standards (SECS), equipment connectivity was the top challenge to be overcome.

Automotive customers require strict records of the production history of all automotive chips to facilitate tracking when problems occur.

In semiconductor chip manufacturing, product tracking begins at the wafer fabrication stage. The wafers will then proceed to the next process stage. Once the wafer is cut into individual dies for packaging, the dies do not have any markings for identification and tracking.

In the early stages, most automated equipment suppliers were large foreign suppliers that commanded high prices, were inflexible and provided long lead times. As a result, we faced delays in project completion and unsatisfactory outcomes.

When the ASE CIM Committee was initially established, there were only 30 engineers qualified to manage the automation process.

Step 1

Collaborate with procurement units to conduct negotiations with equipment suppliers and request that new production equipment meet SECS standards.

Step 2

Perform research on existing production equipment to find ways to achieve automatic connection and convert into compatible SECS formats. After years of development, ASEH’s production equipment now meets SECS standards.

Use 2D codes and RFID technology to accurately record the individual wafer and the locations on the wafer that each die originated from, the locations on the substrate and the locationss on the die carrier and substrates.

Every locations data is stored in the map system database that can be accessed any time. Customers are able to check production history, while our engineering teams can use the data to perform quality and yield analyses.

Actively look for local suppliers of automated equipment including automated guided vehicles, automatic storage and robotic arms, etc. In recent years, we have established business relationships with approximately 38 automation suppliers, strengthening the local automation industry chain in Taiwan.

More than 700 smart factory automation engineers have been trained through the establishment of in-house automation and AI training modules as well as industry-academia research programs.

Created Intelligent Engineering training modules to provide training on statistical analysis and equipment monitoring, and to teach students how to apply digital technology in manufacturing. So far, more than 2,000 personnel have received training.

Created Digital Application training modules to provide courses on RPA, Qlick View, Doc.Bee, co-know, etc. for administrative and support staff. The training helps accelerate our digital transformation and improves employee productivity. So far, more than 4,000 personnel have undergone digital training.