US Bans ArFi Lithography Machines to Plug the 7nm Chip Gap! Kill Huawei’s Kirin Chips Again?

Recently, the United States has implemented new regulations that further escalate the chip ban. These regulations now prohibit AI chips, certain consumer-grade GPU graphics cards, and specific Nvidia models. Additionally, there are renewed requirements for semiconductor equipment, particularly immersion lithography machines used in chip production. The ban targets machines with a DCO (overlay accuracy) value of less than or equal to , effectively prohibiting the sale of all immersion lithography machines currently available worldwide. The reason for specifically targeting immersion lithography machines is to close the loophole in 7nm chip production. These machines utilize deep ultraviolet light refracted through water, enabling the production of smaller chips through multiple exposure techniques. Last year’s ban aimed to limit China’s chip manufacturing capabilities to the 14nm process, but the sale of ASML’s NXT:1980Di lithography machine allowed for the production of 7nm chips. The United States wants to block this path to prevent the creation of advanced chips like the Kirin 9000S. In the short term, the impact may be limited as China still has available immersion lithography machines for continued 7nm chip production. However, acquiring these machines may become more challenging in the future, requiring China to make breakthroughs in its own lithography machine development. ASML, the leading supplier of lithography machines, has relaxed its export restrictions, leading to increased demand from China and a boost in revenue. “China Focus“ is a YouTube channel created to provide current events and pop culture headlines from you can get to know a more real China through my video. #ChineseNews #chips #ChinaFocus Thanks for your watching and subscribing.