Chip equipment manufacturer ASML (ASML, Financial) has created a LEGO-style replica of its high-value product, the TWINSCAN EXE:5000 high-NA extreme ultraviolet lithography machine, exclusively for its employees. When asked about the miniature model, an ASML spokesperson clarified that it is intended solely for internal use to celebrate the company's 40th anniversary and is priced at 208 euros (approximately $216) in the employee store.
The real TWINSCAN EXE:5000 machine costs 350 million euros and weighs as much as two Airbus A320s. Last year, Intel (INTC) received the first actual unit at its Oregon facility. Due to overwhelming demand, ASML canceled limited edition orders from non-employees and imposed stricter purchase limits, despite the high popularity of the LEGO model.
