PSC ups DRAM output to 80k wafers a month

TAIPEI, TAIWAN: Close on the heels of bringing about a cut in its foundry quotes to attract orders from IC design houses, DRAM manufacturer Powerchip Semiconductor Corporation (PSC) has given a major leg up to its production.

The company has increased output to 80,000 wafers a month, which is up from 40,000 units in the second quarter, said sources.

It has been reported that PSC would now look at increasing its monthly production further to 100,000 units by the current year end. This significant move follows hopes of an uptrend in about DRAM prices.

The company, which had cut its foundry quotes aggressively, had done so with an aim to attract orders from IC design houses. Foundry production now accounts for half of PSC’s monthly output, said the sources. PSC has also seen more demand for DDR2 chips from customers, they added. PSC, has been focusing more on the spot market.

Meanwhile, in a related report, it has been pointed out that the company had earlier this month made public its plans to end compulsory unpaid leave for employees starting from August 21. This move follows general optimism that the computer-memory market would see a revival by the second half of year 2009.