Major break-through SLM-order from DPI to Micronic

Contact: Sven Löfquist, Executive Vice President, phone +46 8 638 52 10 Major break-through SLM-order from DPI to Micronic Next generation semiconductor laser pattern generator Täby, Sweden, October 16, 2000 - Micronic Laser Systems AB (OM Stockholm Exchange: MICR) is at the forefront in semiconductor and display laser pattern generators for the production of photomasks to the world wide electronic industries. Micronic is pleased to announce that we have received the first order for the new Sigma laser pattern generator for 0.13 µm design node. The system is based on the SLM, Spatial Light Modulator, technology developed by Micronic. The order was placed by DuPont Photomasks, Inc. (NASDAQ:DPMI), commonly referred to as DPI, one of the world's major photomask makers. The system will be used for photomask production for semiconductors. Delivery will take place during the second half of 2001. This wavelength-independent photomask writing technology will fulfill the requirements for several semiconductor generations. It is a paradigm shift in photomask pattern generation. "DPI is proud to be the first recipient of the Sigma tool, an exciting new laser-based photomask pattern generation technology," says Preston Adcox, President and Chief Operating Officer of DuPont Photomasks. "This will help enable us to maintain our leadership in bringing advanced photomask technology to our global customers". "The long-term challenge for Micronic has been to deliver a pattern generator with the resolution of an e-beam system and the productivity of a laser system. This Sigma order from DPI proves that our revolutionary technology is already here", says Bert Jeppsson, President and CEO of Micronic Laser Systems AB. About DuPont Photomasks DPI leads the photomask industry with one of the most technically advanced manufacturing networks. The company supplies photomasks to the global semiconductor industry from 13 strategically located facilities in North America, Europe and Asia, and derives approximately 25 percent of its current revenues from leading-edge photomasks with 0.18 micron or smaller design rules. DPI also produces and supplies photoblanks (photomask substrates) and pellicles (protective covers for photomasks). Headquartered in Round Rock, Texas, DPI posted worldwide sales of approximately $328 million in fiscal 2000. The company maintains a Web site at http://www.photomask.com. About Micronic Laser Systems Micronic Laser Systems is a Swedish high-tech company engaged in the development, manufacture and marketing of a series of extremely accurate laser pattern generators for the production of photomasks. The technology involved is known as microlithography. Micronic's systems are used by the world's leading electronics companies in the manufacture of television and computer displays, semiconductor circuits and semiconductor packaging components. Micronic is located in Täby, north of Stockholm and at present has subsidiaries in the United States and Japan and a service office in Taiwan. Micronic, with net sales of SEK 213 million (1999), has around 230 employees worldwide. Micronic maintains a web-site at: www.micronic.se ------------------------------------------------------------ This information was brought to you by BIT http://www.bit.se The following files are available for download: http://www.bit.se/bitonline/2000/10/16/20001016BIT00190/bit0001.doc http://www.bit.se/bitonline/2000/10/16/20001016BIT00190/bit0002.pdf