Micronic posts encouraging results

17 Jun 2002

Micronic, the Swedish supplier of laser pattern generators for microlithography, has announced improved financial results, following recent losses.

Improved net sales saw a third-quarter profit of SEK 39 million (USD 4 million), bringing this years' figures into the black. The company says that it has a full order book for the coming year because demand for flat liquid-crystal-display screens is continuing to increase.

Micronic has also developed a novel patterning solution that is based around a spatial light modulator (SLM), which is said to have aroused great interest within the industry.

Early 2001 should prove an interesting time for Micronic. The company is set to invest up to SEK 80 million (USD 8 million) to improve product lead time, with further development of the SLM technique continuing apace. Plans for expansion into the US with an application and demonstration centre have also been initiated. Micronic will also be involved in legal action with US company Etec Systems; a court hearing is scheduled for January to decide on patent rights.