Samsung Reportedly Revamps 1c DRAM Process for Better Yields, Influencing HBM4 Development

Samsung is reportedly on the move to revamp its 6th-generation 1c DRAM, aiming to boost yield rates and gain an edge as it transitions to its eagerly anticipated HBM4 process.

Samsung’s 1c DRAM: A Crucial Step for HBM4 Success

It’s become clear that Samsung is seriously evaluating a makeover for its 1c DRAM process, something industry insiders believe is critical for the successful rollout of its HBM4 technology. As reported by ZDNet Korea, Samsung has been hard at work, rethinking their high-end DRAM designs since the second half of 2024. This redesign of their advanced 1c DRAM is seen as essential in avoiding the integration challenges faced with their previous HBM3 versions, which hit significant obstacles with major players like NVIDIA.

A telling image showcases Samsung’s release of the industry’s pioneering 12 nm DRAM, which stands ready to pair with AMD systems.

The ZDNet Korea report highlights how Samsung’s cutting-edge DRAM process initially failed to hit the desired yield rates, reportedly around 60%-70%. This shortfall stalled their move toward mass production. The core issue seemed to be the chip size of their 1c DRAM. Samsung initially pushed for a smaller chip to crank up production numbers, but this approach sacrificed process stability, thereby lowering yield rates.

From ZDNet Korea, it is noted that Samsung Electronics modified its 1c DRAM design to increase chip size with a newfound focus on yield improvement, targeting stability in mass production by mid-year, even if it incurs higher costs.

The stakes are particularly high for Samsung’s 1c DRAM strategy as the outcome will largely determine the quality and performance of its forthcoming HBM4 products. With competitors like SK Hynix and Micron already ahead with refined designs, Samsung is feeling the pressure. Given the blow to their reputation following the HBM3 issues, there’s a spotlight on Samsung to meet industry benchmarks with this new process.

While the final look of Samsung’s 6th-generation DRAM remains uncertain, there’s anticipation of significant strides in the coming months. If all goes according to plan, Samsung might see its HBM4 process ready for mass production by the year’s end.