Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →In February 2000, STEAG MicroTech announced plans to form a South Korean joint venture with K.C. Technology to make, install, and service semiconductor wet-processing equipment. The proposed venture was to be based at K.C. Tech’s Anseong facility, with STEAG holding a planned 51% stake and K.C. Tech 49%. Contemporaneous reports describe an intended project—not proof that the venture was formed or became operational.
What was announced
EE Times reported on February 14, 2000, that STEAG MicroTech GmbH of Pliezhausen, Germany, planned to establish a joint venture with Seoul-based K.C. Technology Co. Ltd. The aim was to supply and support advanced wet-wafer processing systems for South Korea’s semiconductor industry. The report said the venture would be headquartered at K.C. Tech’s new cleanroom facility in Anseong and would manufacture, install, and service equipment locally. EE Times’ announcement described STEAG’s eventual stake as 51%.
An earlier Korean report, published by ET News on February 9, 2000, said the companies had exchanged a letter of intent covering local joint production, installation, and technical service for semiconductor cleaning equipment. It reported planned venture capital of about US$5 million and a 51% STEAG MicroTech / 49% K.C. Tech ownership split. These are historical figures reported for the proposed venture, not current financial or ownership information. ET News’ report provides the additional details.
What equipment was planned?
A 200 mm single-bath DTT
ET News identified the first planned system as a 200 mm single-bath Double Tank Tool (DTT). It was to be assembled at K.C. Tech’s second factory in Anseong. At the time of the report, that facility was expected to be completed in April; the report does not establish whether it was completed on that schedule.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches#1 Best Overall
A wet station is used to clean semiconductor wafers or remove unwanted oxide films. ET News said the proposed single-bath process was expected to use less chemical solution, simplify processing, reduce equipment size, and lower production costs. Those were anticipated benefits in the report, not independently measured results: the cited coverage gives no comparative tests or performance data.
How the proposed partnership would work
The Korean report divided the intended responsibilities between the partners:
- STEAG MicroTech: research and development, process management, and design.
- K.C. Technology: manufacturing, procurement, installation, and service.
The initial focus was supply to the Korean market, with exports considered later. That was a stated intention, not evidence that exports—or the local supply plan—eventually took place. STEAG MicroTech managing director Michael Fink said demand for the systems had outpaced the company’s supply capability. EE Times reported his explanation alongside the announcement.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is known about the outcome?
The February 2000 reports establish that the companies announced or planned a venture, including its intended ownership, location, equipment, and operating roles. They do not verify that the joint venture was legally completed, that the Anseong factory assembled the DTT, or that the equipment entered production or export. The announcement should therefore be read as a historical plan, not as evidence of a current company, facility, product, or partnership.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
