Cascade Microtech, which specializes in the precise electrical measurement and test of ICs and other small structures, announced that it has entered into a business and technology partnership with Credence Systems to further expand its failure analysis market penetration. Credence Systems Corporation is a provider of design-to-test solutions for the global semiconductor industry. The terms of the relationship were not disclosed.

“As process development costs soar due to shrinking process nodes, accurate failure analysis is more critical than ever to semiconductor manufacturers. The partnership continues Cascade Microtech’s reach into the semiconductor failure analysis market. We intend to expand our failure analysis solutions through strategic relationships and unique products. Credence’s leadership in complete offerings of proven 65 nm debug and diagnostics equipment is strategic to Cascade’s launch of our Failure Analysis product line,” said John Pence, vice president, Engineering Products Division, Cascade Microtech.

“Cascade Microtech’s vision and expertise will help Credence continue to meet our customers’ aggressive roadmaps and demand for best-in-class small geometry measurement capabilities,” said Ofir Baharav, senior vice president and general manager of Credence Systems Corporation. “We are very pleased to be working with Cascade Microtech in this area.”