Reliable Industrial PC for Wafer Test / Probe – EPC-102A Case Study

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Introduction

In the semiconductor industry, Wafer Test / Probe is a critical stage for validating chip functionality before dicing. High-speed, precision-controlled test equipment requires a reliable computing platform to manage motion control, data acquisition, and real-time system integration. That’s where the EPC-102A, an industrial PC for Wafer Test / Probe, becomes essential.

Application Background

A leading semiconductor testing service provider needed to upgrade their probe station controller. Their goals were:

  • Faster test response and data processing
  • Compatibility with motion control cards and DAQ hardware
  • Long-term operation with industrial reliability
  • Seamless integration with MES and ATE systems

Why EPC-102A?

The CESIPC EPC-102A was selected as the central controller for their advanced Wafer Probing System.

Key Features:

  • Intel® 12th Gen Core™ CPU (i5/i7 options)
  • Fanless aluminum chassis for cleanroom environments
  • Rich I/O: 6×USB, 3×COM, dual LAN, optional GPIO
  • Wide voltage input: 9V–36V with 3-pin Phoenix connector
  • Support for PCIe motion cards and frame grabbers
  • Compact and mount-friendly design for integration into test benches
Industrial PC for Wafer Test / Probe
Rich I/O Ports

System Deployment

In this case, the EPC-102A controlled the probe station’s XYZ motion via an EtherCAT PCIe motion control card. The system also handled:

  • Real-time synchronization with ATE hardware
  • Data logging through a high-speed SSD
  • Image capture and alignment through an integrated industrial camera
  • Direct upload to the customer’s MES for yield analysis

Results & Benefits-Industrial PC for Wafer Test / Probe

ImprovementDetails
✅ Faster Probe Test CyclesCut test time by ~20% through improved motion latency
✅ High System Stability24/7 uptime with zero thermal throttling over 6 months
✅ Cleanroom ReadyFanless, dust-free design ideal for ISO Class 5+ environments
✅ Flexible ExpansionPCIe and serial ports accommodated legacy and modern modules

Industries Benefiting from EPC-102A

  • Wafer Foundries (e.g., TSMC, SMIC)
  • IC Packaging and Test Houses (e.g., ASE, JCET)
  • Semiconductor Equipment Manufacturers

Conclusion

Whether you’re upgrading legacy testers or designing new probe stations, the EPC-102A is a reliable industrial PC for Wafer Test / Probe applications. With robust performance, long lifecycle support, and flexible integration, it enables precision testing at the heart of semiconductor quality control.

Contact CESIPC Team

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