Product category:
IC and Hybrid Processing Equipment
News Release from: Powerlase | Subject: Starlase AO8
Edited by the Electronicstalk Editorial
Team on 02 August 2007
Top power lasers to ramp up plasma
production
The introduction of the Powerlase laser systems has significantly altered flat-panel production methods.
LG Electronics has purchased a number of high-powered Starlase AO8 lasers from Powerlase, which will integrate, with existing systems to ramp up production capacity of plasma display panels (PDPs) The A08 laser is a further development of the proven Starlase series
This article was originally published on Electronicstalk on 29 May 2007 at 8.00am (UK)
Related stories
High power laser is EUV source
New device firmly places the laser produced plasma EUV source approach as the main contender to be the source of choice for the high volume manufacturing of semiconductor chips.
University helps with plasma research
Powerlase has entered into a partnership with the University of Central Florida to further the development of high-power laser produced plasma EUV sources.
It has been specifically designed to address PDP manufacturing requirements.
The AO8 employs the highest power in its class and offers customers a unique combination of features, allowing rapid material processing and the ability to replace existing industrial processes.
The introduction of the Starlase laser range to the PDP market has lead to a widespread uptake of laser technology and associated manufacturing techniques.
Further reading
Diode pumped acousto-optic switched laser
The Starlase A08 diode pumped acousto-optic switched laser has proven highly successful in a diverse range of applications, particularly the plasma display panels (PDP) industry
Process puts more on CMOS image sensors
Tower's advanced 200mm production line enables imaging characteristics previously not available in linear imagers and at a highly competitive price point.
High-profile manufactures, such as LG, have benefited from improved production costs and processes following the implementation of the laser systems.
The new lasers will be used in conjunction with other Powerlase systems previously purchased by LG and are the essential component of the rapid laser patterning process (RLP).
RLP is replacing wet-etch photolithography methods used to create patterning on flat-panel screens.
The new technique has been successful in driving down production costs by greatly reducing the number of steps involved in the manufacturing process.
Tony King, CEO at Powerlase, explains: "The introduction of the Powerlase laser systems has significantly altered flat-panel production methods".
"The previous wet-etch technique was a six-step process and required multi-million-dollar area steppers and patterning equipment".
"With the RLP technique the lasers directly pattern the ITO surface used as the flat-panel screen, removing the need for the stepper machine and patterning equipment and cutting production to a two-step process".
"Manufacturing PDPs in this manner is much more efficient and results in production costs being driven down".
"We are delighted to be working with LG to help minimise manufacturing costs whilst driving the quality and efficiency of PDP manufacture with an established global leader".
A spokesman for LG Electronics comments: "The Powerlase lasers we have used to date have been extremely efficient in improving the production process of PDPs".
"Demand for high-quality PDP and flat-panel televisions has increased significantly in recent years, and these new laser systems will ensure we are able to meet consumer needs both now and in the future".
• Powerlase: contact details and other news
• Email this article to a colleague
• Register for the free Electronicstalk email newsletter
• Electronicstalk Home Page

