How We Make Our Masks

Film Photomask
At PhotomaskPORTAL, we outsource production of our photomasks to the finest suppliers in the industry. We'll choose the supplier that optimizes utility of your specific requirements and circumstance while meeting our constraints.

1. We Accept the Design Format Most Convenient for You

You don't need to provide us with write-ready mask data. We accept almost any design format as input (gds-II, Gerber, AutoCAD, PNG, BMP, PDF, a PowerPoint sketch, the back of a napkin, a written statement of work, ....) and transform this into a high-quality design that is optimized to achieve the best possible result on the mask.

2. We Rigorously Check your Design

We run extensive mask rule-checks (MRC) to look for any possible error and to insure we achieve the intended result on the mask.

3. We Use World-Class Manufacturers

We use manufacturers who are expert at maintaining world-class manufacturing processes certified to standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 14001, QS9000, OHSAS 18001, and compliant to standards like TS16949. Some of our suppliers even offer secure ITAR processing and are suppliers to the Trusted Foundry program. We use world-class suppliers because they deliver world-class product.

4. We Build Beautiful Masks

chrome photomask with 3-micron CD
More than just meeting specifications, we pride ourselves on building a beautiful product. From the initial proof you view to the final packaging you open, we try to make every step of the process aesthetic and enjoyable. But in addition to their good looks, our masks are very well constructed. We disposition the quality of every mask with metrology tools calibrated to industry standards. We always measure at least one CD to insure product quality is within tolerance. We use SPC to manage our equipment and processes to insure the pattern is exactly where it is supposed to be. There will never be any defects larger than 5um -- in essence, if we can see it ... we fix it.

5. We Make the Size You Need

photomask diced into chips
Photomasks aren't just for photolithography. Manufacturing engineers from a variety of industries use photomasks in a variety of custom shapes to characterize, troubleshoot, and improve their processes. We use world-class dicing and polishing processes to produce any form factor you require.

6. Our Packaging and Logistics are First Class.

photomask inside a compact inside an anti-static bag
What good is great product if you don't take care of it in transit? We use world-class carriers such as DHL, Federal Express, and UPS depending on the logistics involved. Our product is always shipped inside a protective case made from transparent anti-static plastic material. This case will be inside a hermetically-sealed anti-static bag. The bag will be well-protected in bubble-wrap and placed securely inside a cardboard box for shipment.