China produces early 3nm transistor test using older chip tools
A state-backed Chinese research team has shown early-stage 3-nanometer transistors built with older chip-making gear China can still buy, sidestepping US-led bans on newer equipment. Researchers at the Academy of Sciences made working “gate-all-around” nanosheet transistors using deep ultraviolet (DUV) lithography. But this is just experimental hardware—a real production process for 3nm chips is still a long way off.
- Used DUV, not blocked EUV, for 3nm test device
- Academy of Sciences led the work, per researchers' statements
- Demonstrated functional new-generation transistors
- No evidence yet of full 3nm manufacturing process
- Exact device dimensions weren't disclosed
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