Test and Measurement Product of the Year
Company Name: Advanced Energy
Product Name: The Sekidenko® 401M Series Optical Pyrometer
Supporting Statement:
The Advanced Energy Sekidenko® 401M Series stands out for its ability to provide accurate, high-speed, non-contact temperature measurement in complex thermal processes—one of the most challenging requirements in modern manufacturing. In these situations, precision directly influences product quality, yield, and throughput. The 401M combines mid-infrared sensing technology, integrated EtherCAT communications, fast measurement speed, and a compact design. It sets a new standard for thermal process control in semiconductor, glass, solar, and other advanced manufacturing areas.
Temperature control is a crucial competitive factor in semiconductor manufacturing. As device structures become more complex and process tolerances tighten, manufacturers need temperature measurement systems that deliver fast, reliable, and repeatable data in real time. The Sekidenko 401M was specifically designed to meet this demand. It offers high-speed measurement rates of up to 1 kHz and monitors temperatures across a range from 50°C to 1300°C. This ability helps manufacturers maintain tighter process windows and achieve greater consistency in critical thermal applications.
One major innovation of the product is its use of mid-wave infrared technology. Operating at wavelengths from about 1.7 μm to 5.2 μm, the 401M expands measurement capabilities beyond traditional near-infrared pyrometers. This allows for accurate temperature monitoring through transparent materials and in challenging environments where standard methods may not work. The technology is particularly useful for applications like epitaxy, chemical vapor deposition (CVD), thin-film coating, glass manufacturing, and other advanced thermal processes where accurate surface temperature measurement is crucial.
The 401M also excels in process automation and equipment integration. Its built-in EtherCAT capability removes the need for external communication modules, simplifying installation and reducing system complexity. Combined with USB, serial, analog outputs, external trigger functionality, and synchronization features, the system integrates smoothly into modern manufacturing setups and supports real-time process control strategies.
Another strong reason for award recognition is the product’s effect on manufacturing performance. Advanced Energy designed the 401M to improve measurement accuracy, increase process repeatability, minimize variation, and boost productivity. Automatic ambient thermal correction enhances reliability by offsetting environmental factors that can alter temperature readings. Together, these features help manufacturers reduce scrap, improve yield, and ensure more consistent production outcomes.
The compact design of the 401M adds value for OEMs and end users. As semiconductor and industrial tools face space constraints, equipment designers seek solutions that maintain advanced functionality without expanding the footprint. The 401M’s small-form-factor design integrates into demanding systems while offering the flexibility needed for various applications and materials. Its modular architecture also allows for adjustments to future process needs, safeguarding long-term investments in manufacturing infrastructure.
Beyond its technical features, the 401M illustrates Advanced Energy’s commitment to smarter manufacturing. The product supports closed-loop temperature control and provides the rapid, dependable data needed to optimize increasingly complex thermal processes. By assisting customers in achieving greater stability across multiple chambers and substrate materials, the 401M directly contributes to higher quality production and improved operational efficiency.
Key Highlights
– High-speed non-contact optical pyrometer with measurement rates up to 1 kHz.
– Mid-wave infrared sensing technology spanning approximately 1.7 μm to 5.2 μm.
– Temperature measurement range from 50°C to 1300°C.
– Accuracy of up to ±3°C based on wavelength configuration.
– Integrated EtherCAT communications eliminate the need for external interface modules.
– Automatic ambient thermal correction enhances measurement reliability.
– Full I/O support, external triggering, and synchronization capabilities for advanced automation environments.
– Compact design optimized for semiconductor, solar, glass, and industrial process equipment.
– Enables better process repeatability, productivity, yield, and throughput.
In summary, the Advanced Energy Sekidenko 401M advances the state of thermal process control through its unique combination of mid-infrared measurement technology, high-speed operation, integrated communications, and compact design. The resulting improvements in process accuracy, repeatability, and manufacturing productivity demonstrate clear industry value and support its consideration for a 2026 industry innovation award.
Entry ID: 7504
