ASML and the Machines That Make Computer Chips
ASML 與製造電腦晶片的設備
Introduction
ASML is a company that makes special machines. These machines make the smallest and fastest computer chips in the world.
ASML 是一家製造特殊設備的公司。這些設備可以用來製造世界上最小且最快的電腦晶片。
Main Body
ASML uses a special light called EUV. This light helps make very small parts on a chip. Only ASML can make these machines. Because of this, the US government told ASML not to sell these machines to China.
ASML 使用一種稱為 EUV 的特殊光線。這種光線有助於在晶片上製造極小的零件。僅有 ASML 能製造這些設備。因此，美國政府要求 ASML 不要將這些設備銷售給中國。
China wants to make its own machines now. But these new machines are not fast enough. ASML is now making a new, better machine called 'high-NA'. Intel is the first company to use this new machine.
中國現在希望製造自己的設備。但這些新設備的速度不夠快。ASML 目前正在開發一部名為「high-NA」的新型更強大的設備。Intel 是第一家使用這部新設備的公司。
Some small companies want to find new ways to make chips. They want to use X-rays or helium. These ways are cheaper. But experts think these new ways will not work for big factories.
一些小型公司希望能尋找製造晶片的新方法。他們想利用 X 光或氦氣。這些方法成本較低。但專家認為這些新方法無法適用於大型工廠。
Conclusion
ASML is the leader today. They will stay the leader if their new machines work well.
ASML 目前是領導者。如果他們的新設備運作良好，他們將會維持領先地位。
Vocabulary Learning
💡 The Power of "NOT"
In English, we use not to change a 'Yes' to a 'No'. Look at how the text changes things:
- Fast not fast enough
- Sell do not sell
How it works: Put not after the helping word (do/can/will) to stop the action.
🛠️ Useful Comparison Words
To reach A2, you need to describe things as better or smaller than others.
From the text:
- Smallest / Fastest The #1 in the world.
- Better More good than the old one.
- Cheaper Costs less money.
Pattern: Word + -er = Comparing two things (Cheap Cheaper). Word + -est = The top one in a group (Small Smallest).