Summary of the contracting process

The University of Southampton, located in Southampton, England, conducted a procurement process for the acquisition of a 200mm capable high-resolution imaging equipment, specifically an ultra-high-resolution scanning electron microscope (UHR-SEM). This tender, classified under CPV 38000000 for laboratory, optical, and precision equipment, followed a selective procurement method via a call-off from a framework agreement. The tender period ended on 26 August 2024, and the contract was awarded on 25 November 2024 with the contract period spanning from 25 November 2024 to 24 November 2027. The procurement, valued at £1,445,700, aims to strengthen the capabilities of the Zepler Cleanrooms within the UK semiconductor fabrication ecosystem, supporting 200mm wafer-scale processing in the South East region of the United Kingdom.

This tender presents significant growth opportunities for businesses that specialise in high-resolution imaging and semiconductor research equipment. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that provide cutting-edge laboratory and precision instruments can benefit from participating in such procurements. The procuring entity, the University of Southampton, intends to foster advancements in material and device performance analysis, thereby contributing to national semiconductor research and development. Businesses that can offer sophisticated equipment with efficient fabrication capabilities and sustainable resource management will be well-suited to compete for similar future opportunities.

Award

200mm Capable High Resolution Imaging Equipment

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON

Contract Timeline

Publication Date

27th November 2024 13:23:57 PM
Contract Summary

The University of Southampton Zepler Cleanrooms were looking to purchase in a 200mm wafer capable, ultra-high resolution scanning electron microscope (UHR-SEM). The equipment will deliver efficient fabrication at the wafer scale, process waste reduction and sustainable resource management via enabling of routine imaging and materials analysis, whilst remaining accessible in terms of ease of operation and training for a diverse user base at the academic research level. The proposed equipment is a state-of-the art sub-nanometre, ultra-high resolution scanning electron microscope for fast imaging time to results, shortening the inspection loop in wafer-scale device fabrication, and maintaining the quality of material platforms and lithographic tolerances. By acquiring this equipment, the Zepler Cleanrooms intend: • To be a centre for wafer-scale analysis of material, device performance, and fabrication quality management • To be an integral part of the UK semiconductor fabrication ecosystem that supports 200mm wafer-scale processing. • To provide national semiconductor research and development capability of high- throughput inspection and process yield evaluation for up to 200mm wafers.
Contract Details

Open Contracting ID

ocds-b5fd17-dd0888a9-354c-45b4-abd8-0bff028836cd

Publication Source

Contracts Finder

Procurement Stage

Award

Procurement Method

Selective

Procurement Method Details

Call-off From A Framework Agreement

Procurement Category

Goods

Tender Suitability

SME

Framework / DPS

Framework
Contract Classification

CPV Code(s)

38000000

CPV Division(s)

38 - Laboratory, optical and precision equipments (excl. glasses)
Awarding Authority

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON

Buyer Name

Amy Hands

Buyer Email

procurement@soton.ac.uk

Buyer Phone

02380595000

Buyer Address

UNIVERSITY ROAD

SOUTHAMPTON

SO171BJ

England
Awarded Supplier(s)

Supplier Name(s)

FEI UK LTD

View contract on Contracts Finder

200mm Capable High Resolution Imaging Equipment

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHAMPTON

Contract Timeline

Contract Summary

Contract Details

Contract Classification

Awarding Authority

Awarded Supplier(s)