Open-Silicon Introduces Multi-Layer Mask Program: Reduces Mask Costs by up to 50% for 90nm and Smaller Lithographies

MILPITAS, CA -- (MARKET WIRE) -- April 9, 2007 -- Open-Silicon, Inc., a fabless semiconductor company providing a reliable, predictable and cost-effective alternative to traditional chip design and supply chain models, today announces a multi-layer mask program that offers ASIC customers a new option for cost-effective low and mid-volume ASICs. This introduction is the first in Open-Silicon's Science of ASICs initiative, which will feature a series of technology option additions to the OpenModel.

"Mask costs have received a lot of attention as a primary factor in the rising cost of ASICs. Many companies have tried to address rising mask cost concerns by creating platforms that predefine the metal layers. Multi-layer masks are the first solution that offers a cost-saving option for customers who need a full custom ASIC to differentiate their products in the market," said Dr. Shafy Eltoukhy, Vice President of Manufacturing Operations at Open-Silicon. "Multi-layer masks are particularly cost-effective for companies that need low or medium volumes at 90nm or smaller processes nodes."

Multi-layer masks reduce total mask cost by writing multiple mask layers of the same mask grade onto one reticle.

"The focus of Open-Silicon has always been to dramatically increase the predictability, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of ASICs so that our customers can continue to differentiate their products with custom silicon," said Dr. Naveed Sherwani president and CEO of Open-Silicon. "I am excited to announce our Science of ASICs initiative. The multi-layer mask program is the first of several innovative technology alternatives that we will introduce this year to give ASIC customers cost-effective ASIC solutions."

About Open-Silicon, Inc.

Open-Silicon, Inc. is a fabless ASIC company delivering the most cost-effective, predictable and reliable custom ASIC solution to electronics product customers worldwide. Open-Silicon's OpenMODEL™ is the semiconductor industry's first end-to-end custom ASIC solution based on a revolutionary business model that provides a seamless, low-cost, low risk alternative to traditional models for complex ASIC design and development. For more information, visit Open-Silicon's website at www.open-silicon.com or call 408-240-5700.

Contact Information: Press Contact: Darwa Peterson Open-Silicon 408-240-5720 Email Contact