Nikon 1998 Annual Report Download - page 11

COOLPIX 900 Optics engine
microscope allows users to switch
to optimal magnification with just
the touch of a button and boasts
a variety of features that meet
sophisticated and diversified user
needs. During the period under
review, Nikon was successful in
boosting demand for its NEXIV series
of computerized NC video measuring
systems and the new Nikon V-20B
large-scale profile projector.
In addition, we have developed
and begun marketing three new
varieties of surveying instruments
in our DTM-800 series that can
be made to perform an array of
measurement functions simply
by changing the application pro-
gram card.
Future Outlook
Despite the effects of deterio-
rating conditions in the semicon-
ductor market, Nikon continues to
work to increase its global market
share for excimer steppers and
is confident that by constantly
improving the quality and reliability
of its products it will realize higher
earnings in the current term. We
have already commenced the
shipment of equipment for R&D
of 300mm wafers and have made
delivery on a prototype for the next-
generation ArF excimer stepper,
which we will begin producing
commercially in 1999.
Furthermore, Nikon expects to
improve its performance through
the strong sales of COOLPIX 900
digital cameras, which were
launched in April 1998, and optics
engines, which will be installed in
the company’s high-resolution, high-
brightness LCD projectors.
Nikon Corporation 9
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