Photomasks

Photomasks are precise templates used in the manufacturing of microchips and electronic components. They contain intricate patterns that represent the circuitry designed for the device. During production, these masks are placed over a semiconductor wafer, and light is shined through them to transfer the pattern onto the wafer's surface. This process, called photolithography, enables engineers to create extremely tiny and complex circuit features with high accuracy, essential for modern electronics like computers and smartphones. Essentially, a photomask acts as a stencil that guides the creation of microscopic circuitry on semiconductor materials.