News Release

Applied Materials Expands Process Diagnostic and Control Capabilities with Acquisition of Boxer Cross

Apr 29, 2003 at 7:34 AM EDT

Innovative Metrology Systems Enhance Applied Materials' Process Control Solutions

SANTA CLARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 29, 2003-- Applied Materials, Inc. announced that it has acquired all of the outstanding stock of Boxer Cross Inc. for an undisclosed cash amount. Founded in 1997, Boxer Cross pioneered a new class of in-line monitoring systems that provide users with critical electrical measurement data for controlling semiconductor processes.

"Boxer Cross' innovative products assist customers in managing the mounting challenges of manufacturing chips at the 130nm and beyond technology nodes," said Dr. Gilad Almogy, vice president and general manager of Applied Materials' Process Diagnostic and Control group. "In addition to strengthening our portfolio of metrology and inspection systems, Boxer Cross' products are expected to add significant value to our process technologies. As Applied Materials further develops integrated solutions and modules, the close coupling of metrology and process systems should substantially reduce cycle time in providing new, more efficient solutions for our customers."

Boxer Cross' products include the BX-10 Source/Drain and Ultra-Shallow Junction Measurement System and the BX-30 Advanced Interconnect Measurement System. Both products provide critical in-line electrical measurements on 200mm and 300mm product wafers to detect implant/anneal (BX-10) and dual damascene copper (BX-30) process variations.

This press release contains certain forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, those relating to the potential benefits of the acquisition and enhancement of the Company's products and services. These forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the performance and successful integration of acquired businesses and technology. The Company assumes no obligation to update the information in this press release.

Applied Materials (Nasdaq:AMAT), the largest supplier of products and services to the global semiconductor industry, is one of the world's leading information infrastructure providers. Applied Materials enables Information for Everyone(TM) by helping semiconductor manufacturers produce more powerful, portable and affordable chips. Applied Materials' Website is http://www.appliedmaterials.com.

CONTACT:
Applied Materials, Inc.
Betty Newboe, 408/563-0647 (technical media)
Jeff Lettes, 408/563-5161 (business media)
Carolyn Schwartz, 408/748-5227 (financial community)

SOURCE: Applied Materials, Inc.