Work out mask set cost amortisation instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Amortised mask cost per unit is the mask set divided by lifetime volume. At 250,000 units a 4.2 million mask set adds 16.80 per die — comparable to the recurring die cost itself, which is why volume forecasts dominate the ASIC business case.
Mask amortisation
amortised per unit = mask cost / lifetime volume; total = amortised + recurring die cost
The unit cost moves inversely. Halving volume doubles the amortised mask contribution, which is how ASIC programmes turn unprofitable.
Yes. Multi-project wafers and shuttle runs share a reticle between several designs, cutting prototype mask cost enormously at the price of limited volume.