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Intel's contributions in Vietnam have played a significant role in reducing challenges in the global semiconductor supply chain. By processing chip substrates within the assembly and testing facility, Intel supplied millions of substrate units for CPU production in 2021...The COVID-19 pandemic has heightened demand for personal computers, causing disruptions in the semiconductor industry supply chain. This has led to shortages of critical components in processor manufacturing, including the chip substrate - one of the three fundamental elements of CPU construction. In most high-performance processors, the ABF (Ajinomoto Build-up Film) chip substrate holds fundamental yet crucial significance, serving as the foundation for constructing a complete CPU.
As many of you may already know, a chip is produced from a wafer (a thin semiconductor slice, typically made of crystalline silicon), precisely cut into square or rectangular 'pieces,' serving as the heart of a CPU. However, it's fragile and delicate, unfit for end-user use without two additional components: the integrated heat spreader (IHS) and the chip substrate. Before leaving the factory, the semiconductor chip is placed on the substrate and the 'CPU back cover' attached to enhance usability and durability. This packaging not only protects the chip but also establishes electrical connections between the chip and the mainboard.
Kim Huat Ooi, Vice President and General Manager of Intel Products Vietnam, stated that internally processing chip substrates at the factory has accelerated chip assembly by 80% compared to previous methods. Recent times have demonstrated that this manufacturing process can be scaled up with quality comparable to substrate suppliers for Intel. In the future, Intel plans to expand its capacity to allow this method to support a broader range of products.
Intel Products Vietnam is the largest assembly and testing facility within Intel's manufacturing network. With an investment of $1.5 billion and 2800 employees, the factory has supplied over 3 billion CPU units to Intel's global customers since its inception 15 years ago.
