sorter

Wafer sorters organize and rearrange wafers between cassettes or FOUPs based on lot, specification, or processing requirements. **Purpose**: Combine or split lots, organize by test results, route to different processes, create new carrier loads. **Operations**: Transfer wafers from source to destination carriers, one at a time, based on programmed sort map. **Wafer identification**: Read wafer ID to verify correct sorting. OCR or RFID identification. **Sort recipes**: Programmed rules determine wafer movement - by slot number, wafer ID, test bin, or other criteria. **Particle-free handling**: Clean environment, precise edge handling, no surface contact. Critical for yield. **Integration**: Connected to MES for sort instructions and tracking. Updates wafer location database. **Throughput**: 200-300+ wafers per hour typical. Balances speed with careful handling. **Inspection integration**: Some sorters include wafer inspection or review capabilities. **Applications**: Post-sort after electrical test (bin sorting), lot consolidation, splitting for engineering, rework processing. **Equipment types**: Standalone sorters, integrated with test handlers.