Taiwan-based mask ROM and NOR flash maker Macronix International is likely to see its business operation swing from the red into profitability in the third quarter of 2013, according to local market analysts.

　　Macronix had 67% of first-quarter 2013 consolidated revenues of NT$4.405 billion (US$148 million) coming from NOR flash, 22% from mask ROM and 11% from foundry services, the company indicated. Among applications of NOR flash, communication accounted for 27% of first-quarter NOR flash revenues, followed by consumer electronics with 26%, computer with 24%, handset with 13%, automotive with 7% and others with 3%, Macronix pointed out.

　　Macronix has set aside a capital expenditure budget of NT$6 billion specifically for upgrading equipment and processes at its 12-inch fab in 2013, the company noted. Macronix aims to hike the proportion of NOR flash revenues for 75nm process from 15% in the first quarter to an average of 29% in 2013 and that of ROM revenues for 45nm process from 14% in the first quarter to 46% on average in the year, the company indicated.

　　Macronix will also introduce 32nm process for ROM in the third quarter and begin 55nm-based volume production of NOR flash at the end of 2013, the company said.