Samsung is developing technology to simulate photolithography, a core chip manufacturing process, using quantum computers. The project aims to drive innovation in semiconductor integration density and yield by mobilizing next-generation information technology (IT). Samsung SDS (018260), the Samsung Group's systems integration (SI) affiliate, is leading the research and plans to begin a proof-of-concept (POC) in the second half of this year.
According to the IT industry on Tuesday, Samsung SDS has recently been developing a simulation computing technique (algorithm) that uses quantum computers to virtually implement part of the photolithography process. Photolithography refers to the stage of using light to draw fine circuits onto a wafer. Because it is the process of sketching an outline before the actual circuit is etched by cutting the wafer, it is considered a key process that determines the quality of the finished semiconductor.
The research uses both quantum computers and classical computers together. Samsung SDS performs the core simulation calculations with quantum computers and processes the information generated in this process with classical computers. The quantum computer serves as the backbone, handling large-scale calculations without bottlenecks. Artificial intelligence (AI) is deployed to detect and correct errors that arise during the use of quantum computers at an early stage. The main purpose of the research is to secure faster and more accurate photolithography process simulation design technology by mobilizing various advanced technologies. Samsung SDS has succeeded in securing some algorithms and plans to verify their effectiveness through a POC in the second half of the year.
If the technology development succeeds, Samsung will preemptively acquire the capability to streamline processes using next-generation computing resources. Sophisticated simulation is expected to reduce the time and cost involved in drawing and etching semiconductor patterns.
Samsung SDS does not plan to commercialize this technology as separate software. Accordingly, it is expected to share the technology with Samsung Electronics (005930) going forward to improve semiconductor integration density and efficiency. Samsung Electronics has developed process simulation technology through its Semiconductor R&D Center for more than 10 years. The Semiconductor R&D Center divides research departments by semiconductor product and by process within its Process Development Office, researching process optimization technologies tailored to each characteristic.
