Novellus Systems (NVLS) 10-Q 2010 Q3 Quarterly report

Exhibit 32.1

NOVELLUS SYSTEMS, INC.

CERTIFICATION

In connection with the periodic report of Novellus Systems, Inc. (the “Company”) on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 25, 2010 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Report”), I, Richard S. Hill, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, hereby certify as of the date hereof, solely for purposes of Title 18, Chapter 63, Section 1350 of the United States Code, that to the best of my knowledge:

(1) the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d), as applicable, of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and

(2) the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company at the dates and for the periods indicated.

This Certification has not been, and shall not be deemed, “filed” with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Dated: November 2, 2010	By:	/s/ Richard S. Hill
		Richard S. Hill
		Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive Officer)