The 4DS Memory Ltd (ASX: 4DS) share price went through some ups and downs today, rising 4% before closing flat at 12 cents. This follows a company update on its expected shipment of wafers.
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What's in the wafer delivery?
The memory storage provider advised that Imec – a research and development hub in nanoelectronics and digital technologies – has successfully manufactured second non-platform lot wafers. These are being prepared for shipment, with the delivery expected at 4DS Memory's Fremont facility around mid-December.
Provided there is no delay in customs clearances, the company will report on the analysis of the wafers between late December and early January.
4DS advised it has identified future refinements to process conditions for the second platform lot wafers. In turn, this is predicted to reduce the risk at the various stages of the fabrication process. As Imec originally had the second platform lot wafers slated to start in the middle of first-quarter FY21, 4DS is seeking to bring the date forward.
The company said that the analysis of second non-platform lot and second platform lot will potentially allow it to fabricate the wafers to read and write selected bits and bytes. In turn, the end process will produce a fully functional megabit memory chip.
Partnership agreement
As the partnership agreement expires on January 1, 2021, 4DS Memory and Imec are currently finalising the terms to extend their collaboration. The company noted that while details such as timetables and costs may take it past the expiry date, Imec remains committed to continuing to work with 4DS.
Furthermore, 4DS advised that it was keeping a close eye on the COVID-19 situation in Belgium and in Silicon Valley, California. As restrictions are being enforced to stop the virus spreading, the company says it will update the market on any significant changes to operations as a result.
About the 4DS Memory share price
The 4DS Memory share price has risen sharply since its lows of 2.5 cents in March, gaining more than 400% and reaching its 52-week high of 17 cents last month.
The company has a market capitalisation of $157 million.
