IRVINE, Calif., July 19, 2002 (PRIMEZONE) -- Newport Corporation (Nasdaq:NEWP) today announced that its vacuum end effector with through beam mapper is available for beta testing. This product not only combines the traditional vacuum end effector with the wafer mapping function, but also enables automatic teaching of the robot.
The end effectors' integrated optical sensors can map traditional silicon wafers, clear glass wafers and a host of film types. The imbedded sensor technology in the end effector also enables Newport's patented automatic teaching of the robot, thereby reducing teaching time and improving teaching consistency. The integration of this functionality into a small form factor package allows overall system costs to be reduced by combining redundant functions and simplifying the teaching and setting up of the robot.
"This product is a clear indication that Newport is focusing on key customer needs," said Paul Bacchi, general manager of Newport's Kensington Laboratories unit. "The faster a tool can be brought online the faster it can add value to the fab, and our patented auto-teach technology facilitates this requirement. We have made it a top priority to transfer our patented auto-teach technology to as many applications as possible, and the vacuum end effector is yet another example of the success of this effort."
The vacuum end effector with through beam mapping is now available for beta testing in both 200mm and 300mm designs. More information on Newport's semiconductor equipment product line is available on the company's Web site at www.newport.com/semi.
About Newport Corporation
Newport Corporation is a leading global supplier of advanced technology products and systems to the semiconductor, communications, electronics and research markets. The company provides components and integrated subsystems to manufacturers of semiconductor processing equipment, advanced automated assembly and test systems to manufacturers of communications and electronics devices, and a broad array of high-precision components and instruments to commercial, academic and government customers worldwide. Newport's innovative solutions leverage its expertise in precision robotics and automation, sub-micron positioning systems, vibration isolation and optical subsystems to enhance the capabilities and productivity of its customers' manufacturing, engineering and research applications. Newport is part of the Standard & Poor's Midcap 400 Index and the Russell 2000 Index.
Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. As discussed in Newport's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001, assumptions relating to the foregoing involve judgments with respect to various matters, all of which are difficult or impossible to predict accurately and many of which are beyond the control of Newport. Although Newport believes that the assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements are reasonable, any of the assumptions could prove inaccurate and, therefore, there can be no assurance that the results contemplated in forward-looking statements will be realized. In light of the significant uncertainties inherent in the forward-looking information included herein, the inclusion of such information should not be regarded as a representation by Newport or any other person that Newport's objectives or plans will be achieved. Newport undertakes no obligation to revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect such events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.