Global semiconductor capital equipment spending is likely to drop 19.5% to $51.7 billion in 2012, according to a new report from market research .
That contrasts with 13.7% growth in 2011.
"The impact of the slowing macro economy, high inventories and a sluggish PC industry — due to both weak demand and the flooding in Thailand — will temper the outlook for 2012," Gartner VP Kalus Rinnen said in a statement.
The research firm sees slower spending through the second half of next year, but adds that growth in DRAM and foundry demand should boost spending from there; Gartner sees 19.2% growth in spending in 2013.
Gartner sees wafer fab equipment revenue up 9.8% this year, but down 22.9% next year, with a 23.7% rebound in 2013.
Packaging and assembly equipment orders are seen down 6.1% this year, with a further 13.5% drop next year, before a 26.2% rise in 2013.
Automated test equipment orders are expected to fall 6% this year and 16.5% next year, before rebounding 37.9% in 2013.