Sophia Windsor
[ Gearbest Technology News]According to Korean media reports, SK Hynix announced that it has completed the comprehensive conversion of its DRAM production process from 1z to 1a generation at its Wuxi factory in China. This upgrade lasted about two years and has been progressing steadily since the company first disclosed the plan in January 2024. It has now achieved a monthly production capacity of approximately 180,000 to 190,000 12-inch wafers, with nearly 90% using the 1a process, significantly improving product performance and energy efficiency.
The DRAM process is divided into generations according to the degree of shrinkage. 1z is a third-generation 10-nanometer technology, while 1a is a fourth-generation technology with higher integration and lower power consumption. As a key part of SK hynix's global DRAM production system, the Wuxi factory accounts for 30% to 40% of the company's total DRAM production. Its technological upgrade is of strategic significance to ensure the stability of the supply chain and meet the needs of global customers.
It is worth noting that the 1a process usually relies on extreme ultraviolet lithography (EUV) equipment, but due to relevant export controls, EUV equipment cannot be directly deployed in China. In this regard, SK Hynix adopts an innovative division of labor model: the key photolithography steps involving EUV are arranged to be completed in South Korea, and the remaining manufacturing processes are integrated in the Wuxi factory. Although this solution increases process complexity and logistics costs, it effectively takes into account technical compliance and production continuity.
SK Hynix executives previously emphasized that the Wuxi factory is not only an important production base for SK Hynix, but also plays a key role in the global memory chip supply system. Since it was put into operation in 2006, SK hynix has invested trillions of won in the base.
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