Understanding OSAT Providers and Why They Matter
Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) providers play a critical role in today’s semiconductor supply chain, offering specialized expertise, advanced infrastructure, and scalable capacity that many device manufacturers rely on to bring products to market faster and more efficiently. As chips become more complex and the demand for high-quality, high-reliability devices grows, partnering with the right OSAT can significantly enhance production flexibility, reduce costs, and improve overall device performance. The FAQ below highlights key considerations, benefits, and insights to help organizations better understand the value an OSAT partner can deliver.
What is an OSAT provider?
An OSAT (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test) provider is a specialized company that performs packaging, assembly, and testing services for semiconductor devices. Instead of manufacturing the silicon itself, OSATs focus on converting bare wafers into fully packaged, tested, and ready-to-ship components. Integra Technologies, a Micross company, combined with Micross, form the largest US based OSAT provider of high-reliability microelectronics.
Why do semiconductor companies use US based OSAT providers?
Companies use OSAT providers to access advanced packaging technologies, scalable manufacturing capacity, and comprehensive test capabilities without building and maintaining their own costly infrastructure. This allows them to focus on design and innovation while relying on experts to handle assembly, packaging, and reliability validation.
What are the benefits of outsourcing to an US based OSAT?
OSATs offer specialized expertise, high-volume manufacturing efficiency, reduced cost of ownership, and faster time-to-market. With deep experience across multiple package types and test flows, OSATs help customers navigate complexity, optimize yields, and maintain consistent quality throughout production.
How does an US based OSAT improve product reliability?
OSATs provide thorough electrical testing, burn-in, environmental stress screening, qualification services, and detailed failure analysis to ensure each device meets performance and reliability requirements. Their state-of-the-art equipment and standardized processes help catch latent defects early and increase long-term product reliability.
What types of services do US based OSAT providers typically offer?
A complete OSAT partner may offer wafer thinning, dicing, assembly, wire bond or flip-chip attach, 2.5 and 3D heterogeneous integration, encapsulation, electrical test, burn-in, RF testing, reliability testing, failure analysis, qualification to industry standards, and final packing/shipment. Many OSATs also support engineering services such as test development, design verification, and upscreening.
How does partnering with a US based OSAT help with supply chain flexibility?
OSATs give semiconductor companies the ability to scale production quickly, shift capacity between facilities, and adapt to market demand without major capital investment. This flexibility helps maintain continuity during ramp-ups, market shifts, or supply chain disruptions.
Is using a US based OSAT cost-effective?
Yes. Because OSAT providers specialize in assembly and test, they achieve economies of scale that reduce costs per unit. Customers avoid large in-house equipment investments and benefit from optimized workflows, streamlined logistics, and competitive pricing for both low-volume and high-volume programs.