Milpitas, California. March 19, 2008.

Nanometrics Names Michael Fischer Head of Worldwide Sales

Nanometrics Incorporated (Nasdaq: NANO), a leading supplier of advanced metrology equipment to the semiconductor industry, announced today that Michael Fischer, a 23-year veteran of the semiconductor and process control industry, has been named vice president of worldwide sales of the company, effective immediately.

Mr. Fischer, 49, comes to Nanometrics after nearly 20 years at KLA-Tencor. Most recently, Mr. Fischer served as general manager of the Global Qimonda Business Unit, following his responsibilities as senior director of worldwide sales of the Reticle Inspection Division. Previous posts include senior sales and engineering roles at KLA-Tencor and Siemens AG.

“We are exceptionally pleased to welcome Mike to the senior sales position at Nanometrics,” commented Dr. Timothy J. Stultz, Nanometrics’ president and chief executive officer. “A proven industry veteran, Mike brings a wealth of selling and commercial experience in international markets. Mike is a seasoned leader of global sales organizations, with expertise in executing defined, strategic selling business practices.”

“This is an exciting time to join Nanometrics,” added Mr. Fischer. “Nanometrics has an impressive product technology roadmap and a reputation for innovation in the process control metrology industry. I look forward to leveraging the company’s strong product portfolio to serve our growing, global customer base, which includes virtually all the major players in the semiconductor industry worldwide.”
 
About Nanometrics:
Nanometrics is a leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of high-performance process control metrology systems used in semiconductor manufacturing.  Nanometrics standalone and integrated metrology systems measure various thin film properties, critical dimensions, overlay control and optical, electrical and material properties, including the structural composition of silicon and compound semiconductor devices, during various steps of the manufacturing process. These systems enable semiconductor manufacturers to improve yields, increase productivity and lower their manufacturing costs. The Company maintains its headquarters in Milpitas, California, with sales and service offices worldwide. Nanometrics is traded on NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol NANO. Nanometrics’ website is http://www.nanometrics.com.

Contact:
Investor Relations Contact:
Claire McAdams
Headgate Partners LLC
530-274-0551 tel; 530-274-0531 fax
claire@headgatepartners.com

Company Contact:
Gary Schaefer
408.545.6000 tel; 408.232.5910 fax
gschaefer@nanometrics.com