It is rare to see a technology giant open its doors to showcase how it really operates. But that is exactly what Intel had in mind when it invited global press and media representatives to visit its factories in Malaysia. As a part of its Tech Tour 2023 event, the chip maker gave us a detailed insight into how exactly a CPU is made. I learned a lot, but before I share my experience, here’s a brief about the company’s history and future plans in Malaysia.
Recommended Videos This factory receives the silicon wafers from fabrication plants, conducts die preparation processes, and subsequently categorizes them for package assembly and testing at various Intel assembly/test facilities around the world. The KMDSDP facility is located on the mainland, unlike the Penang facility which is on the island itself, which meant a longer bus ride crossing a gorgeous-looking bridge over the sea.
Next, each of these chips undergo testing to identify any defects and are sorted at the same time. To accomplish this, Intel uses massive sorting modules which are as big as a bus having a total of 20 individual test cells. Each test cell weighs approximately 1,000 pounds, and to maneuver these, there is a specially designed lifting mechanism that hovers above the floor using a cushion of air just like a hovercraft.
On to assembly and testing The next part of the tour included a visit to the Penang Assembly and Test facility, which is situated on Penang Island. This manufacturing facility focuses on assembling and testing various chips by the millions every day. Essentially all the reels are received at this facility, and then each die is removed, packaged, and tested before they are ready to hit the stores.
First up is the burn-in test during which Intel exposes the chips to high temperatures and voltages to identify and eliminate any defects. Chips that successfully pass this test then proceed to electrical testing, which includes testing of all electrical traces and as well as functionality.