20,000+
Annual Capacity
Annual semiconductor sample-processing capacity.
Global Insight. Real-World Impact.
Advanced analysis for the systems people rely on every day.
ISS Analytical Research Centers help engineers understand the materials, devices and physical evidence behind safer transportation, reliable aviation, cleaner energy, advanced computing and the technologies shaping modern life.
Operational Performance
Built for consistent, high-volume analytical work.
Our production workflow is designed to move samples quickly while maintaining the quality and repeatability complex analytical work requires.
10,112+ YTD
Samples Processed
Samples processed year to date.
22 hr
Average Turnaround
Average sample turnaround time (TAT).
3%
Rework Rate
Current average rework rate.
How ISS Impacts the World
Better physical evidence supports better engineering decisions.
The work may begin with a cross section, a failure site, a material interface or an atomic-scale image. The value shows up in the products and systems people trust every day.
ISS provides analytical evidence and engineering support. Product safety, certification and final design decisions remain the responsibility of the product manufacturer and system owner.
Safer Mobility
Helping engineers investigate the electronics behind vehicle safety.
From airbag and sensing electronics to power devices and control systems, physical analysis can help identify defects, material changes and failure evidence.
Automotive & Power →
Reliable Aviation
Supporting the hardware that keeps aircraft connected and controlled.
Microscopy, failure analysis and physical assurance can support avionics, communications, control electronics and other mission-critical hardware.
Aerospace & Defense →
Cleaner Energy
Understanding the materials and electronics behind efficient energy systems.
ISS analysis can support solar, power-conversion and energy technologies by revealing interfaces, degradation, materials behavior and device-level failure evidence.
Battery & Energy →Explore ISS
Start with the question. Go deeper when you need to.
The homepage tells the impact story. The rest of the site provides the technical depth.
What We Do
Capabilities
Advanced microscopy, failure analysis, metrology, circuit edit, sample preparation and physical assurance.
How We InvestigateTechnologies
TEM/STEM, SEM, FIB-SEM, EDS, EELS, diffraction, tomography and analytical measurement.
Where It MattersIndustries
Semiconductor, AI, automotive, aerospace, energy, materials and emerging research markets.
What Needs SolvedAnalysis Challenges
Voiding, cracking, contamination, dimensional variation, failure localization and other physical-analysis problems.
Where We WorkResearch Centers
A growing network of specialized ISS Analytical Research Centers with complementary expertise.
A Growing Analytical Network
ISS Analytical Research Centers.
ISS is building a distributed network of specialized Analytical Research Centers, each designed around complementary analytical capabilities and a common ISS operating model.
ARC01 · ACTIVE
Vancouver, WA
FIB-SEM · Metrology · Failure Analysis · TEM-STEM
ARC02 · PLANNEDQueen Creek, AZ
Circuit Edit · Advanced Characterization · TEM-STEM · Security
FUTURE ARCMinnesota
Second Materials Research Center supporting ARC01.
FUTURE ARCTexas
Geological & Earth Materials research specialization.
FUTURE ARCNorth Carolina
Biological & Life Sciences research specialization.
Start with the question.
Your sample. Your question. Our job is to find the answer.
Capabilities
What ISS provides.
Six integrated service lines support semiconductor engineering from physical access and high-resolution imaging through measurement, failure analysis, circuit modification and authorized hardware assurance.
Not sure where to start?
Tell us the engineering question. We will build the workflow.
Technologies
The right technique for the right question.
ISS combines imaging, preparation, spectroscopy, diffraction, metrology and analytical workflows to reveal structure, composition, dimensions and failure evidence across multiple scales.
Analytical Technologies
From rapid inspection to nanoscale characterization.
Optical Microscopy
Rapid visual inspection and documentation for surface features, defects, contamination, and sample condition prior to advanced analysis.
SEM
High-resolution surface imaging for morphology, defects, structures, particles, and semiconductor device characterization across a wide range of sample types.
CD Metrology
Precise dimensional measurement of critical features for process monitoring, device characterization, and semiconductor manufacturing support.
FIB / FIB-SEM
Site-specific cross-sectioning, material removal, circuit access, and advanced sample preparation using focused ion beam and dual-beam microscopy.
TEM / STEM
Atomic- and nanoscale imaging for detailed structural, defect, interface, and materials analysis using transmission and scanning transmission electron microscopy.
EDS
Elemental identification and compositional analysis through energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, including point analysis, line scans, and elemental mapping.
EBSD
Crystallographic analysis for phase identification, grain orientation, texture, grain boundaries, and microstructural characterization.
EELS
Advanced chemical and electronic structure analysis at the nanoscale using electron energy-loss spectroscopy in the TEM/STEM.
3D Tomography
Three-dimensional reconstruction of internal structures, interfaces, defects, and material distributions using sequential imaging and computational reconstruction.
What do you need to know?
Start with the information you need.
Technique Comparison
How the technologies complement one another.
| Technique | Best For | Structural Info | Chemical Info | Dimensional Data |
|---|
One question may require more than one tool.
Start with the question. We will select the technology.
Industries
Analytical insight across advanced industries.
From semiconductor devices and AI infrastructure to energy systems, advanced materials and emerging research markets, ISS combines microscopy, characterization, metrology and engineering analysis to answer complex physical questions.
Markets We Serve
Start with your industry. We will build the analytical path.
Connected Network
Industry expertise mapped to specialized ARC capabilities.
ISS is building each Analytical Research Center around a distinct technical role. Semiconductor and materials work is anchored by Vancouver; Queen Creek expands modification, characterization and security; future centers extend the network into materials research, geological research and biological sciences.
Start with the market and the question.
ISS will route the work to the right capability and research center.
Common Analysis Challenges
Start with the problem you need to solve.
You do not need to know the instrument or analytical method before contacting ISS. Start with the physical question, failure signature or measurement challenge. ISS will build the analytical path around the evidence required.
Common Challenges
From visible defects to nanoscale evidence.
Voiding & Porosity
Locate and quantify voids in packages, interfaces, films, solder structures and advanced materials.
Delamination & Interface Failure
Evaluate separation, weak bonding, interface quality and failure propagation across layered structures.
Cracking & Fracture
Identify crack initiation, propagation paths and surrounding structural evidence in devices, packages and materials.
Contamination & Foreign Material
Locate particles or unexpected material and determine elemental composition with microscopy and spectroscopy.
Critical Dimensions
Measure linewidths, spacing, pitch, vias, trenches and other customer-defined geometric features.
Layer & Film Thickness
Quantify thin films, multilayer stacks, barriers, coatings and complex interfaces from SEM through TEM/STEM.
Interface Analysis
Characterize bonding, morphology, chemistry and structural transitions across critical interfaces.
Elemental Identification
Use EDS and related analytical methods to identify composition and map elemental distributions.
Failure Localization
Move from system-level symptom to the physical region requiring higher-resolution investigation.
Device Modification & Circuit Edit
Physically alter or access circuitry to test hypotheses, isolate paths and support engineering debug.
Suspect vs. Control Comparison
Compare failing or abnormal material against known-good devices, structures or process conditions.
Unknown Physical Defect
When the failure mode is unclear, ISS can build a staged workflow to preserve evidence and escalate resolution as needed.
How ISS Approaches the Problem
Question first. Technique second.
01 · DEFINE
Start with the engineering question
Describe the symptom, device, sample condition and what decision the analysis needs to support.
02 · LOCALIZE
Preserve context and identify the region
Use optical, SEM, electrical context or prior evidence to narrow the investigation.
03 · CHARACTERIZE
Escalate only as needed
Move through FIB-SEM, TEM/STEM, EDS/EELS, metrology or circuit edit based on the evidence required.
04 · INTERPRET
Connect evidence to the decision
Compare, measure and document the physical result in a form engineers can act on.
Related Paths
Explore the site by need.
Capabilities
See what ISS provides, from failure analysis and metrology to circuit edit and sample preparation.
Technologies
Explore TEM/STEM, SEM, FIB-SEM, EDS, EELS, diffraction, tomography and related methods.
Industries
See how ISS supports semiconductor, AI, automotive, aerospace, energy, materials and emerging research markets.
Not sure what technique you need?
Tell us the problem. ISS will build the analytical path.
ISS Analytical Research Centers
A national network for advanced analytical research.
ISS Analytical Research Centers bring specialized microscopy, analysis, modification and physical-device assurance closer to the engineering teams that need them. Each ARC shares a common ISS operating model while developing a distinct technical specialization.
The ARC Network
Specialized centers. One integrated ISS network.
Vancouver skyline photo: RodSager64 / CC BY-SA 4.0
ARC01 · Active
Vancouver, Washington
Vancouver is the structural-analysis and failure-investigation hub of the ARC network, combining site-specific access, quantitative measurement and high-resolution microscopy.
FIB-SEMMetrologyFailure AnalysisTEM-STEM
Queen Creek / San Tan Mountains photo: CWanamaker / CC BY 3.0
ARC02 · Planned
Queen Creek, Arizona
Queen Creek is planned as the modification, advanced-characterization and physical-security hub of the ARC network, complementing Vancouver with specialized engineering capabilities.
Circuit EditAdvanced CharacterizationTEM-STEMSilicon Security
Future Expansion
Specialized future centers built around distinct research missions.
The following markets are future ARC expansion targets and are not currently presented as operating facilities.
Future ARC
Minnesota
Materials Research Center
A second materials-focused center intended to expand research capacity, provide network redundancy and support ARC01 Vancouver.
Future ARC
Texas
Geological & Earth Materials
Planned around geological materials, mineral and earth-material research, and advanced physical characterization.
Future ARC
North Carolina
Biological & Life Sciences
Planned as the network's biological and life-sciences research specialization as ISS expands beyond its semiconductor core.
One network. Multiple specialties.
Send the question to ISS. We will route the work to the right analytical center.
ARC01 · Vancouver, Washington
Structural analysis. Quantitative measurement. Failure evidence.
The Vancouver ARC is ISS's flagship center for FIB-SEM, semiconductor metrology, failure analysis and TEM-STEM workflows.
Active ARC
Vancouver Specialization
Built around structural understanding and failure investigation.
FIB-SEM
Site-specific cross-sectioning, buried-feature access, serial investigation and preparation for downstream analysis.
Metrology
Critical dimensions, layer thickness, pitch, geometry and recurring process-monitoring measurements.
Failure Analysis
Evidence-driven investigation connecting symptoms with structural, material and process observations.
TEM-STEM
High-resolution internal structure, interfaces, defects and analytical characterization at nanometer-to-atomic scales.
Integrated Vancouver Workflow
Localize → Prepare → Measure → Characterize → Compare → Understand
Vancouver is designed for investigations where physical localization, controlled preparation, quantitative measurement and high-resolution microscopy must work as one coordinated path.
ARC01 · Vancouver
Start your project with the Vancouver analytical team.
ARC02 · Queen Creek, Arizona
Modify. Characterize. Challenge. Verify.
The planned Queen Creek ARC is being positioned around circuit edit, advanced characterization, TEM-STEM and silicon security / physical assurance.
Planned ARCQueen Creek Specialization
Built around physical modification, advanced characterization and security.
Circuit Edit
Precision cut, isolate, deposition, access and engineering-debug workflows using dedicated circuit-edit technology.
Advanced Characterization
Complementary analytical techniques including elemental, chemical and crystallographic characterization as projects require.
TEM-STEM
Nanoscale and atomic-scale imaging for device structures, interfaces, materials and security-sensitive investigations.
Silicon Security
Authorized invasive hardware assessment, physical-device assurance, secure teardown and FIB-based security validation.
Integrated Queen Creek Workflow
Define → Access → Modify / Challenge → Characterize → Verify → Report
Queen Creek is planned as a complementary ARC for projects that require active physical modification, deeper analytical characterization and authorized security evaluation.
ARC02 · Queen Creek
Discuss projects intended for the planned Arizona center.
About ISS
Advanced tools. Experienced people. Defensible answers.
Innovative Semiconductor Solutions is building a specialized network of Analytical Research Centers focused on helping engineers and researchers understand increasingly complex devices, materials, structures and failures across semiconductor and advanced research markets.
Built around the engineering question
The instrument is only part of the answer.
Complex semiconductor problems rarely fit neatly into a single analytical technique. ISS brings complementary preparation, imaging, spectroscopy, metrology and engineering capabilities together so customers can move through an investigation without unnecessary handoffs.
Prepare → Image → Measure → Analyze → Understand
Our Approach
Start with the question.
Understand the Objective
What happened, what changed, what must be measured and what decision must the data support?
Preserve the Evidence
Handle, prepare and document the sample in a way that protects the information it contains.
Select the Right Workflow
Choose the appropriate combination of preparation, microscopy, spectroscopy, metrology and analysis.
Communicate Clearly
Provide organized data, observations and findings engineers can use.
Scale When Required
Support both unique investigations and repeatable production-oriented analytical programs.
Protect Customer Information
Use disciplined handling and confidentiality practices for customer devices and intellectual property.
A partner, not just a lab.
See deeper. Understand more.
Careers at ISS
Join our family.
Build hands-on technical skills in a laboratory where precision, curiosity and teamwork turn complex devices into useful engineering answers.
2 Open PositionsVancouver, WashingtonFull-Time / On-Site
Open Positions
Prep Technician Level 1
We are hiring two Prep Technician Level 1 team members for our Vancouver Analytical Research Center. This is an entry-level technical role for people who take pride in careful hands-on work and want to grow in semiconductor analysis.
What you’ll do
- Prepare semiconductor samples for microscopy, metrology and failure-analysis workflows.
- Perform careful mechanical preparation, mounting, grinding, polishing, cross-sectioning and related sample-preparation tasks under established procedures.
- Document sample identity, preparation status and handoffs to maintain traceability.
- Inspect work quality and communicate concerns before samples move to the next analytical step.
- Maintain a clean, organized work area and support routine laboratory readiness.
- Train on increasingly advanced preparation methods as proficiency develops.
What we’re looking for
- Strong attention to detail and the patience to perform precision work consistently.
- Good manual dexterity and comfort working with small devices, tools and fixtures.
- Dependability, professional communication and the ability to follow documented procedures.
- Basic computer skills and willingness to learn laboratory tracking systems.
- Laboratory, manufacturing, electronics, mechanical, microscopy or technical-school experience is helpful, but not required for the right candidate.
Build a Technical Career
Start with precision. Grow with capability.
Sample Preparation
Build strong fundamentals in handling, sectioning, polishing and analytical readiness.
Advanced Preparation
Develop toward increasingly complex, site-specific and microscopy-driven preparation methods.
Microscopy & Metrology
Expand technical understanding around imaging, measurement and analytical workflows.
ARC Network Growth
Grow with a company building specialized Analytical Research Centers across multiple markets.
Equal Opportunity
ISS considers qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other status protected by applicable law.
Ready to build something technical?
Join our family and grow with ISS.
Resources
Technical information for better analytical decisions.
Explore capability documents, technical guides, application notes and sample-submission resources.
ISS Capability Statement
Overview of advanced microscopy, failure analysis, sample preparation and analytical capabilities.
Request / Download →Silicon Security Capability Statement
Overview of physical-security evaluation and semiconductor assurance services.
Request / Download →Sample Submission Guide
How to identify, document and prepare samples for ISS technical review.
View Guide →TEM vs. STEM
Understand what each technique reveals and when each is appropriate.
Explore →Understanding Site-Specific FIB Preparation
How targeted preparation connects a customer-defined feature to advanced microscopy.
Explore →Critical Dimension Measurement
How microscopy can support semiconductor CD and cross-sectional metrology.
Explore →Need help selecting a technique?
You do not need to know the instrument before contacting ISS.
Private Equipment Marketplace
Access to ISS equipment listings is available by request.
ISS maintains a private marketplace for qualified buyers evaluating pre-owned SEM, FIB-SEM, TEM and STEM systems. Current inventory, pricing, system configuration details and availability are shared only after access is approved.
QUALIFIED BUYERSPRIVATE INVENTORYDIRECT SALES SUPPORT
Request Access
Tell us what you are looking for.
To protect active opportunities and confidential equipment transactions, ISS no longer publishes its equipment catalog or pricing publicly. Approved buyers receive direct access to current listings and can work with ISS on configuration, logistics, installation, service and warranty options.
1. Request Access
Send your company name, equipment interest and intended application to ISS Equipment Sales.
2. Buyer Qualification
ISS confirms the request and determines which current systems are relevant to your application and facility requirements.
3. Private Review
Qualified buyers receive current availability, pricing, configuration details and direct support from ISS.
Configuration Review
ISS can review detector packages, analytical options, facility requirements and intended applications before purchase.
Logistics & Installation
Turnkey packages can include deinstallation, shipping coordination, installation, startup and acceptance support as quoted.
Service & Warranty
Warranty and service terms are defined for each system. Covered FRU parts and excluded consumables are identified in the equipment agreement.
Secure Client Access
Client Login
ISS uses client-approved SharePoint environments for secure storage and transfer of sensitive project data. Client workspaces remain protected by the access controls established for each engagement.
Secure Data Workflow
Your project data stays in the approved environment.
Client-Approved SharePoint
Project files, reports, images and sensitive data can remain within the SharePoint environment approved for the engagement.
Controlled Access
Access is limited to authorized users and governed by the permissions established for the client workspace.
ISS Website as the Front Door
The public site provides navigation and project intake; sensitive project data does not need to be stored on the public website.
Need access?
Contact ISS and we will confirm the correct secure workspace for your project.
Secure Employee Access
Employee Login
ISS employee resources are accessed through the company-approved Microsoft 365 and SharePoint environment. Use your ISS-issued credentials to access authorized internal resources.
Internal Access
Keep company information inside the approved environment.
Microsoft 365 & SharePoint
Internal documents, procedures and authorized employee resources remain within the company-approved Microsoft environment.
Company Credentials
Employees should use only their ISS-issued account and the access permissions assigned to their role.
Future Employee Portal
This login page is the starting point for a future employee portal that can organize SOPs, training, schedules, equipment status and internal resources without moving sensitive information onto the public website.
ISS Team Access
Continue to the approved Microsoft environment for internal resources.
Submit a Project
Tell us what you need to understand.
You do not need to know which microscope, preparation method or analytical technique your project requires. Start with the sample and engineering question.