What you should know
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- Samsung Foundry is renaming its second-generation 3nm node to 2nm, which may mislead clients expecting chips produced with a more advanced process.
- The renaming decision was influenced by optimizations allowing for smaller transistor sizes, potentially increasing chip performance and energy efficiency.
- Unlike TSMC, Samsung Foundry already employs Gate-All-Around (GAA) transistors in its 3nm process, a technology that enhances electrical signal transmission and reduces current leaks.
- There’s an industry-wide focus on the transition to GAA transistors, with TSMC planning to switch with its 2nm production in 2025, highlighting the competitive landscape in semiconductor manufacturing.
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Full Story
Well, here’s a twist straight outta Korea that’s got everyone scratching their heads. Samsung Foundry, y’know, the chip-making giant, dropped a bombshell. They’ve been chatting about churning out chips with a flashy 2nm process. But, hold up. It turns out, they might actually use their second-gen 3nm tech. Yeah, talk about a plot twist.
Confused? You’re not the only one. Imagine being one of those big-shot clients of Samsung Foundry. You’re all hyped up, thinking you’re getting the latest 2nm tech next year. And then, bam! You find out it’s actually second-gen 3nm stuff.
So, what’s the deal? In layman’s terms, Samsung Foundry’s pulling a bit of a switcheroo. They’re basically calling their second-gen 3nm node a 2nm. This nugget came from an exec in the fabless semiconductor world. For those not in the know, “fabless” means they design chips but don’t make ’em themselves. They let Samsung Foundry handle the dirty work. This exec was like, “Samsung’s telling us they’re renaming their 3-nano tech to 2-nano. Even had us rewrite our contracts.”
Oh, and remember Preferred Networks (PFN)? They were all proud, being the first to sign up for this so-called 2nm node from Samsung Foundry. Turns out, their order’s actually for the second-gen 3nm node. Plot thickens, right?
Samsung Foundry was all set to kick off mass production of these 2nm chips in the latter half of next year. But with this news? Looks like they might hit the gas pedal sooner, given they’re rolling with the second-gen 3nm node this year.
Now, why this whole renaming shenanigan? The exec spilled the beans. It’s all about transistor size. Samsung Foundry’s been doing some serious wizardry, shrinking those transistors down. Smaller transistors mean you can pack more of ’em into a chip. This translates to either a speed boost or better energy efficiency. Or hey, maybe both.
But wait, there’s more. Samsung Foundry’s got another ace up its sleeve. Unlike its rival TSMC, Samsung’s already rocking Gate-All-Around (GAA) transistors with its 3nm process. TSMC? They’re planning to switch to GAA for their 2nm tech, but not till 2025. GAA’s a big deal because it wraps the gate around the channel from all sides. Think of it like a hug, but for electrons. This tech cuts down on current leaks and amps up the drive current. End result? Chips that not only talk faster but also don’t tire as easily.
Bet your bottom dollar we’ll be hearing more about this from Samsung Foundry. And who knows? TSMC and Intel might throw their hats into the ring too. So, keep your eyes peeled and stay tuned for more chip drama.
