Hitachi and IBM are to begin working together to research and develop small-scale chips measuring 32nm and 22nm.

The companies will focus on metrology, the measurement and analysis of the physics and components used in the development of small-scale processors.

"By combining individual research strengths and intellectual property we reduce the significant costs associated with advancing the next generation of chip technology," said Bernie Meyerson, chief technology officer at IBM's Systems & Technology group.

Eiji Takeda, vice president, executive officer and general manager of Hitachi's R&D group, added: "Our two companies have a long history of successful business collaboration and we look forward to extending this to include the semiconductor metrology research arena."

Researchers from the two companies will work at IBM's campuses in Yorktown Heights and Albany, New York.

The development of 32nm chips has long been an area of focus for IBM. In addition to its research with Hitachi, Big Blue is partnering with BASF on new lithography techniques.

IBM hopes to have its first 32nm chips by 2010. Intel has its first 32nm chips slated for 2009.