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Advanced Energy^® Awarded Default Standard for Pulsed-DC Power Applications by Leading, Magnetic-Disk Equipment Supplier

Dual-output Pinnacle^® Plus⁺ systems enable production for leading-edge materials on magnetic-disk platforms

FORT COLLINS, Colo., Jan. 9, 2007—Advanced Energy Industries, Inc. (NasdaqGM: AEIS) today announced that a leading equipment supplier to the media/data storage industry has awarded AE^®’s Pinnacle Plus⁺ as the default standard for pulsed-DC power applications for one of its high-volume, magnetic-disk equipment platforms. This long-time customer chose to standardize on AE’s Pinnacle Plus⁺ pulsed-DC power supply system because of its many patented features, such as proactive arc management, pulsing-power delivery, and compatibility with a broad range of both metallic and reactive materials. These high-performance capabilities were deemed essential for this industry-leading customer to keep ahead of demanding, consumer-driven disk drive markets.

Magnetic disks—employed in products ranging from portable music devices, notebook computers, digital cameras and DVRs to gaming systems—require higher data densities than many older equipment platforms can accommodate. With best-in-class arc management and dual output, AE’s Pinnacle Plus+ system permits this customer’s equipment to sputter both sides of a magnetic disk simultaneously. As a result, these capabilities enable perpendicular processes, which deliver high density and highly uniform coatings for magnetic-disk applications.

Dr. Hans Betz, president and CEO of AE, noted, “Data storage equipment manufacturers must continually address fast-moving consumer trends as well as technological hurdles. These companies need to partner with suppliers possessing the same level of expertise to stay competitive. Our long-term contribution to this valued customer is underscored by this recent default-standard award and by the Pinnacle Plus+ system’s ability to enable this customer’s demanding processes. We will continue to expand our opportunities for pulsed-DC applications within the important data storage market through integral relationships such as this.”

AE^® Pinnacle^® Plus⁺ Pulsed-DC Power Supply

The precision arc management of the Pinnacle Plus+ pulsed-DC system has been proven to reduce substrate damage caused by arcing—directly contributing to higher throughput, superior film uniformity and quality as well as more repeatable performance than standard DC systems for both metallic and reactive materials. Individually controllable, dual-out pulsing from a single unit, up to 350 kHz pulsing, and a variable duty cycle delivers excellent process flexibility, latitude and stability required to develop previously unachievable DC processes. 

 

About Advanced Energy^®

Advanced Energy^® develops innovative power and control technologies that drive high-growth, plasma thin-film manufacturing processes worldwide, including semiconductors, flat panel displays, data storage products, solar cells, architectural glass, and other advanced product applications.

AE^®’s product portfolio includes precise, flexible power systems; reliable gas and liquid flow-management systems; accurate thermal instruments; and global support services. Leveraging this focused product portfolio and technology leadership, AE creates solutions that maximize process impact, improve productivity, and lower cost of ownership for its customers, including original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end-users around the world.

AE operates in regional centers in North America, Asia, and Europe and offers global sales and support through direct offices, representatives, and distributors. Founded in 1981, AE is a publicly held company traded on Nasdaq National Market under the symbol AEIS. For more information, go to www.advanced-energy.com.  
 

Advanced Energy^®, AE^® and Pinnacle^® are trademarks of Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.