Major US Flash Memory Manufacturer Adopts Applied Spectra’s LIBS solution

RT100-HP device monitors chemical concentration of lead in IC leadframes and FBGA packages

FREMONT, Calif. (June 11, 2008) — Applied Spectra, Inc., a leading provider of analytical instruments based on laser ablation technology, today announced that a major US flash memory manufacturer will adopt Applied Spectra’s LIBS (Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy) technology to monitor the chemical concentration of lead in IC leadframes and FBGA packages. The first RT100-HP LIBS system has been delivered, installed, and qualified at the buyer’s manufacturing facility in Malaysia.

Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is a spectroscopic technology that analyzes light from the plasma generated during laser ablation. Measured spectral lines and their relative intensities provide both qualitative and quantitative information about the sample chemical composition. LIBS provides instantaneous elemental analysis without the tedious sample preparation process, traditionally associated with other elemental analytical technologies such as ICP-OES, ICP-MS, and AA. LIBS is also known to provide superior detection sensitivity compared to XRF for small and thin samples, making the technology ideal for chemical analysis of localized areas on electronic components that include MEMS devices and chip packaging materials.

“We are extremely pleased to have this manufacturer adopt our LIBS technology to perform lead concentration analysis and to demonstrate RoHS compliance for various chip packaging components. This is a clear confirmation of our LIBS products’ ability to deliver strong analytical performance and to increase chemical analysis productivity for our customers,” said Dr. Jong H Yoo, Vice President of Technology and Marketing at Applied Spectra. “We look forward to successfully implementing our LIBS technology at several other of the manufacturer’s global facilities.”

Lead (Pb) is a chemical element known to cause brain damage and other harmful health effects in humans, especially in children. Restriction on Hazardous Substances (RoHS) directives have been implemented among several key industrial countries including Japan, Korea, China as well as many of Enropean Union nations. RoHS directives call for a ban on lead (Pb) in all electronic products above the concentration level of 1000 ppm.

About Applied Spectra

Applied Spectra is a leading supplier of laser-based analytical instruments. Our unique, highly automated products harness the latest in laser ablation analysis techniques. We simplify the process of elemental chemical analysis, while delivering rapid, high-precision results that are environmentally friendly. Founded in 2004, we have a manufacturing, research and development facility in Fremont, CA, USA.

For more information, visit: www.appliedspectra.com.