Nanometrics intros wireless version of NanoNet.

Nanometrics, Inc. (Nasdaq:NANO) has introduced a wireless network configuration version of its NanoNet technology. The system integrates seamlessly into existing fab networks as a wireless overlay or standalone wireless network for NanoNet, a proprietary software networking technology for integrated and standalone metrology systems.

"Our new wireless networking capability allows fabs to quickly and easily deploy NanoNet without any significant impact on their current network. It overcomes the limitations created by existing, hard-wired networks and enables the synergistic use of all metrology systems," said John Heaton, president and CEO of Nanometrics. "The unique benefits offered by the wireless technology position us to better serve our customers through the ability to substantially enhance the flexibility of our integrated metrology systems."

Wireless networking offers a number of unique advantages over hard-wired systems in the fab. It supports the ability to install and utilize NanoNet without any significant impact on the existing network. In addition, it is easy to incorporate additions and changes to the configuration with minimal impact on the network or downtime. The system uses fewer internal LAN ports, and the process tools are immediately network-ready for recipe downloads. The technology has scalable, standards-based, centralized security framework for increased fab safety. The system features robust, proprietary enhancements to the industry standard Wired Equivalent Privacy (WEP) data encryption and centralized, user-based authentication to ensure the ultimate in data security. The e-diagnostics capability provides Web-based management and troubleshooting control.

Introduced last year, NanoNet enables users to synchronize standalone and integrated metrology systems through remote process setup and monitoring, including offline recipe creation and transfer, without disrupting production for increased process control and overall equipment efficiency. Consisting of both software and hardware, NanoNet leverages all the benefits of integrated metrology and allows standalone tools to act as a server to connect with Nanometrics' integrated metrology and standalone tools.