> Very few firms have the resources/know how to even run the machines - which is what makes TSMC so important. I dispute that this is simply what sets TSMC apa

> Very few firms have the resources/know how to even run the machines - which is what makes TSMC so important. I dispute that this is simply what sets TSMC apart. The process of designing transistors and chip "IP" (the term used) such as 2.5D stacking technologies and the like (which is where coordination with EDA companies like Synopsys, Cadence, and etc. comes in) is just one thing. Then to prepare the photomask (I'm sure there are partners, but still), and operate the whole clean room facility around the input and output of wafers and other materials into these ASML/other fabrication machines is another thing.