Time synchronization successes and challenges in the semiconductor industry

Timestamping is critical when gathering information that can be used to respond to problems in the factory. ISMI has been driving data quality guidelines and standards for time synchronization with the purpose of improving data collection and decision-making during manufacturing. These activities have led to the publication of multiple guideline documents, a SEMI standard, and a guide document. In parallel, two independent equipment software implementations provided important lessons learned and helped amend the standards and the guidelines.