What is ASM

The acronym ASM carries significant weight in the global electronics and semiconductor manufacturing industries. It can refer to different but related entities, most prominently ASM International (Netherlands), ASMPT (Singapore), and ASM Assembly Systems (Germany). Each operates in a distinct stage of the manufacturing chain — from front-end wafer fabrication to back-end assembly and surface-mount technology (SMT) production.

Understanding the differences between these entities is essential for industry professionals, equipment buyers, and supply chain managers. This article provides a detailed, professional overview of each ASM, their historical context, product portfolios, technological innovations, and market positioning.

ASM International – Netherlands Headquarters

1.1 Corporate Background

Founded in 1968 by Arthur del Prado, ASM International N.V. began as a distributor of semiconductor assembly equipment before transitioning into a leading manufacturer of wafer-processing tools. The company is headquartered in Almere, the Netherlands, and has a network of R&D and manufacturing facilities in Europe, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and other regions.

Over the decades, ASM International has positioned itself as a pioneer in Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) technology, a critical enabler of advanced semiconductor nodes.

1.2 Core Technology Areas

ASM International focuses exclusively on front-end semiconductor manufacturing, which involves processes performed on bare silicon wafers before they are cut into individual chips.

Its main product categories include:

• Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) Systems – Used for ultra-thin film growth at the atomic scale, enabling precise control over layer thickness and uniformity.

• Epitaxy Tools – For depositing crystalline layers that match the substrate, crucial in power devices, RF components, and advanced logic chips.

• Plasma-Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) – For insulating layers and passivation films.

• Thermal Processing Equipment – High-temperature furnaces for annealing and material transformation processes.

1.3 Industry Impact

ASM’s ALD technology has become indispensable in manufacturing at 7nm, 5nm, and smaller process nodes, particularly for high-k metal gate (HKMG) transistors, advanced DRAM, and 3D NAND devices. Its customer base includes tier-1 foundries, logic and memory manufacturers, and integrated device manufacturers (IDMs).

ASMPT – Singapore Headquarters

2.1 Corporate Background

ASM Pacific Technology Limited (ASMPT), headquartered in Singapore and listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, originated as ASM International’s Asia subsidiary. It later became a separate entity with a focus on back-end semiconductor equipment and electronics assembly solutions.

Today, ASMPT is one of the world’s largest suppliers of equipment used in packaging, interconnection, and SMT manufacturing.

2.2 Product Portfolio

ASMPT’s operations span two primary divisions:

1. Semiconductor Solutions Division (SSD)

• Die bonding systems

• Wire bonding systems

• Advanced packaging equipment (Fan-out, Wafer-Level Packaging)

2. Surface Mount Technology (SMT) Solutions Division

• Printing machines (DEK)

• Placement systems (SIPLACE)

• Inline inspection systems

2.3 Market Role

ASMPT plays a key role in the mid-to-late stages of electronics manufacturing, supporting mass production in sectors like consumer electronics, automotive electronics, telecommunications, and industrial automation. Its equipment is valued for throughput, placement accuracy, and flexibility in high-mix production environments.

ASM Assembly Systems – Germany Headquarters

3.1 Corporate Background

ASM Assembly Systems is the SMT-focused business unit within ASMPT, best known for its SIPLACE and DEK brands. With its main R&D and production centers in Munich, Germany, ASM Assembly Systems has deep roots in Europe’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem.

3.2 SIPLACE Pick-and-Place Machines

SIPLACE placement systems are renowned for:

• High placement speed (measured in components per hour – CPH)

• Advanced vision systems for component alignment

• Flexible feeders for quick changeovers in high-mix production

• Capability to handle miniaturized components (01005, micro-BGAs) as well as large, odd-shaped parts

3.3 DEK Printing Machines

DEK is a long-established brand in solder paste printing:

• Precision stencil printing for fine-pitch components

• Automated paste inspection

• Integrated process control to ensure consistency across production runs

Together, SIPLACE and DEK form a complete SMT line solution for electronics manufacturers.

Which Country Does ASM Belong To?

The answer depends on the specific ASM entity:

• ASM International → Netherlands 🇳🇱

• ASMPT (ASM Pacific Technology) → Singapore 🇸🇬 (Hong Kong-listed)

• ASM Assembly Systems → Germany 🇩🇪

Historical Connection Between ASM International and ASMPT

Originally, ASM International owned both front-end and back-end equipment businesses. In 1989, ASMPT was established to focus on the back-end segment. Over time, ASM International divested its controlling stake in ASMPT, leading to two independent companies:

• ASM International – purely front-end equipment

• ASMPT – back-end and SMT solutions

This separation allowed each to specialize and invest more aggressively in its respective markets.

Role of ASM Entities in the Electronics Manufacturing Supply Chain

ASM — whether referring to ASM International, ASMPT, or ASM Assembly Systems — represents a family of technologically advanced companies that have each become leaders in their respective niches. From atomic-level wafer processing to high-speed PCB assembly, the ASM name signifies precision engineering, innovation, and global manufacturing expertise.