July 17, 2012 -- The Collaborative Alliance for Semiconductor Test (CAST), a SEMI Special Interest Group, released a Docking and Mounting Generic Terminology Guideline document. Semiconductor test equipment operators, specifiers, service personnel, and other industry stakeholders can use the guide to improve the “accuracy and efficiency of using, buying and servicing docking and handling equipment,” said Günther Jeserer, leader of the CAST Docking and Handling Working Group and Business Unit manager of Gravity and Pick & Place at Multitest AG.

At SEMICON West 2010, the CAST working group set its goals as improving time to market, improve efficiency and saving cost, and easing supply chain management.

The document defines the generic terminology for all components typically found in a standard test cell set-up in final package test including perspectives, orientations and directions. Input from a diverse group of suppliers, users and other industry professionals helps to standardize common terminology used during sales, application and service operations. The guide covers test head/manipulator components and motions, test head swing positions, Device Under Test (DUT) positions, including swing and tumble motion definitions. 

The CAST Docking and Mounting Working Group manual is available free of charge on the SEMI website at www.semi.org/en/node/42146

CAST was formed in 2008 by semiconductor device makers and test industry suppliers to engage in and resolve common industry issues related to higher test equipment utilization, lower costs, and greater return on investment. CAST members include a range of semiconductor industry leaders from automated test equipment (ATE) companies, integrated device manufacturers (IDMs) and outsourced semiconductor assembly and test (OSAT) companies. In 2009, CAST became a SEMI Special Interest Group to develop, coordinate and direct all SEMI services for the semiconductor test community. For more information, visit www.semi.org/IndustrySegments/Test/CAST.

SEMI is a global industry association serving the nano- and microelectronics manufacturing supply chains. For more information, visit www.semi.org.

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