Samsung Revamps 1c DRAM Process for Better Yields; Influences HBM4 Development

Samsung is reportedly in the process of overhauling its sixth-generation 1c DRAM in an effort to improve yield rates and a step ahead with its forthcoming HBM4 technology.

### Samsung’s 1c DRAM: A Pivotal Component for HBM4 and Company Success

Samsung is focusing on redesigning its 1c DRAM process, a critical factor for the anticipated success of its HBM4 initiative. A report from ZDNet Korea highlights that since the second half of 2024, Samsung has been meticulously assessing its advanced DRAM designs, leading to a complete rework of its high-end 1c DRAM. This transformation aims to guarantee that the upcoming HBM technologies are embraced by the industry, in contrast to the challenges faced by the HBM3 variants when seeking integration with major players like NVIDIA.

The report indicates that Samsung’s latest DRAM technology didn’t hit the yield rate targets, which lie in the range of 60% to 70%. This shortfall meant the company couldn’t move into mass production. The core issue reportedly stems from the dimensions of the 1c DRAM chip. Initially, Samsung planned to shrink the chip size to boost production volumes, but this came with a trade-off in process stability, thereby lowering yield rates.

> According to ZDNet Korea, Samsung Electronics has modified the 1c DRAM design to increase chip size, focusing on yield improvement, with a target set for mid-year. The emphasis seems to be on ensuring stable mass production of future memory technologies, even if it incurs additional costs.

Samsung’s efforts with the 1c DRAM are absolutely vital for the success of its HBM4 products. With competitors like SK Hynix and Micron already perfecting their versions, Samsung faces a ticking clock. The company has to prove itself, especially after the setbacks experienced with the HBM3, to make sure the 1c DRAM process meets the industry standards.

For now, there is a degree of uncertainty surrounding the outcome of Samsung’s sixth-generation DRAM process. However, it’s suggested that we might witness advancements in the coming months. Should things unfold positively, Samsung’s HBM4 could be well-positioned for mass production by the year’s end.