Tech Valley, a leading developer of industrial X-ray equipment, has made significant strides in the semiconductor industry with its innovative X-ray chip counter technology. The company’s CEO, Kim Han-seok, recently shared insights with Mail Business at their headquarters in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province.
Revolutionary X-ray Chip Counter Technology
Tech Valley’s X-ray chip counter is a game-changer in the semiconductor manufacturing process. This device automatically identifies the number of semiconductor chips in a tape reel using X-ray technology, significantly improving efficiency and accuracy. Previously, workers had to manually count chips by tearing open reels, a process that took around 10 minutes per reel. In contrast, Tech Valley’s equipment can count four reels in just six seconds.
Global Recognition and Customer Base
The impact of Tech Valley’s innovation is evident in its global customer base. More than 400 companies across 58 countries utilize their chip counter technology. The company’s achievements were further recognized when it was selected as a “World’s Best Product” by the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy last year.
Government Support and R&D
CEO Kim Han-seok attributes the company’s success to government support for R&D projects. “Over the past decade, we’ve strengthened our industrial X-ray technology through government-backed R&D initiatives, enabling us to grow into a world-class non-destructive inspection equipment company,” Kim explained. The government’s support for venture companies also played a crucial role in Tech Valley’s development, particularly in recruiting top IT talent from Ukraine through a software recruitment support project in 2003.
Future Prospects and Innovations
Looking ahead, Tech Valley is focusing on developing automated X-ray inspection equipment integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) deep learning technology. Kim highlighted the significant value addition that AI brings to their equipment, stating that incorporating automated programs using AI can triple the price of their industrial X-ray equipment. “The added value comes from the software,” Kim emphasized.
With increasing sales in Europe and plans to explore the Chinese market through participation in Semicon China 2025, Tech Valley is poised for continued growth and innovation in the semiconductor industry.
