Veeco Instruments Inc. announced today that it sold its first Predictive Analytics solution to a major data storage customer. Incorporating Rudolph Technologies, Inc.’s (NYSE: RTEC) proven fault detection and predictive maintenance software, the new platform delivers increased Veeco system productivity for maximum efficiency resulting in reduced maintenance costs.

The combination of Veeco’s advanced sensor technology that tracks a wider number of tool parameters with Rudolph’s best-in-class fault detection software platform creates a unique maintenance solution that enables customers to reduce unscheduled system downtime, proactively manage system maintenance and detect early failure problems before they occur.

Based on customer feedback and extensive field data on Veeco NEXUS® ion beam etch tools, Veeco’s Predictive Analytics solution achieved over 15% lower maintenance costs from a reduction in wafer scrap, unscheduled tool downtime and material costs.

“We have demonstrated the ability to change the service structure from scheduled to predictive maintenance, which will have a favorable impact on our customers’ operational efficiency when fully implemented,” said Guy Shechter, Vice President of Veeco Service Products and Marketing. “Being able to predict mechanical failures, maintenance scheduling and critical component degradation directly translates to improved tool performance, increased uptime and most importantly a reduction in overall cost of ownership.”

Veeco formed its partnership with Rudolph to develop technology-specific solutions that work in unison with Veeco’s existing system software to enhance etch and deposition tool performance, as well as provide upgrades for Veeco’s global install base. The Veeco Predictive Analytics product is based on Rudolph’s recently introduced Equipment Sentinel™ software platform, which features a new smart dashboard platform that allows customers to seamlessly turn equipment data into actionable operational intelligence.

“As a global leader in process control and data analysis systems and software for semiconductor and advanced packaging manufacturers, we are excited about partnering with Veeco to provide a revolutionary software platform,” said Thomas Sonderman, Vice President and General Manager of Rudolph’s Software Business Unit. “Together, we created a solution that is fully integrated to Veeco’s systems and has achieved superior early failure detection capabilities compared to previous platforms.”