Mar 25, 2002 KANATA, Ontario
GSI Lumonics Inc., (Nasdaq: GSLI - news; Toronto: LSI - news), today announced the release of the TrimSmart(TM) EP1000 laser trimmer for adjustment of embedded passive components.
Embedded passive components are a new technology currently in the early stages of adoption by leading-edge manufacturers of printed circuit boards. By mounting passive components (resistors, capacitors, inductors) within the inner layers of multi-layer printed circuit boards, surface area on the outer layer currently occupied by conventional surface-mount (SMT) passive components is made available for more complex active components including integrated circuit chips. This allows greater functionality to be attained within a smaller board size -- a key market driver for the next-generation of personal electronic devices. Several materials and techniques are available for the creation of inner-layer embedded components, but they all share one need -- they require post-deposition trimming to bring their parameters within required tolerance ranges. The patent pending TrimSmart EP1000 laser trimmer has been developed specifically for this application.
"The introduction of the GSI Lumonics(TM) TrimSmart EP1000 embedded resistor trimmer renews our commitment to provide leading-edge enabling tools for the global printed circuit industry," said Charles Winston, President and CEO. "We believe that embedded passive technology will be embraced by innovative PCB manufacturers who are seeking to increase market share and profit margins in the currently difficult market."
David Clark, General Manager for GSI Lumonics' Electronics business unit added "we have leveraged proven technologies from our established circuit trim and micro-via drilling products into a new platform designed specifically for this application. We have added advanced panel handling automation and an operator-friendly user interface. Taken together, these features will allow the EP1000 to satisfy the most demanding needs of the early adopters of embedded passive technology. We have already formed partnerships with several such manufacturers and are actively seeking to extend this collaboration with other PCB houses."
GSI Lumonics supplies advanced laser systems, components and services to semiconductor, electronics and other markets, and precision optics for telecommunications networks. GSI Lumonics' common shares are listed on Nasdaq (GSLI) and The Toronto Stock Exchange (LSI). The Company's web site address is http://www.gsilumonics.com. GSI Lumonics and TrimSmart are trademarks of GSI Lumonics Inc.
For more information:
Fran Crecco
GSI Lumonics Inc.
978-439-5511 (ext: 6104)
