How Mirrors Influence GPU Costs

The exorbitant prices of contemporary GPUs can be attributed, in part, to the sophisticated mirrors used in their production.

The Science Behind the Cost

These immensely precise mirrors are utilized in advanced EUV lithography machines necessary for chip manufacturing. To create chips, extreme ultraviolet light is essential, and this light requires exceptionally accurate reflection and focusing.

Precision Required

The system demands an accuracy of 260 picometers, which is less than the size of a water molecule. Each mirror must achieve a surface accuracy of approximately 53 picometers.

Production Complexity

Creating these mirrors involves multiple processes including traditional optical techniques followed by ion beam figuring to correct surface imperfections. Ultimately, around 50 alternating layers of molybdenum and silicon are deposited to enhance reflectivity for EUV light.

Economic Impact

The complexity and precision of manufacturing these mirrors are significant contributors to the overall cost of GPUs today. With figures like these, the increasing prices of graphics cards become more understandable.