News: Microelectronics
8 June 2021
Imec.IC-link and EUROPRACTICE launch design contest for first-time users of GaN-IC 650V technology
Imec.IC-link and the EUROPRACTICE consortium (which provides academic institutions and medium-sized companies with access to IC prototyping services, system integration solutions, training activities and small volume production) are launching a design contest for first-time users of the GaN-IC 650V technology of nanoelectronics research centre imec of Leuven, Belgium.
The use of gallium nitride for power electronics is becoming more important as applications in automotive, consumer electronics and data centers demand ever higher switching speeds, lower losses and smaller form factors, notes imec. The research centre has responded to these challenges through the development of its GaN-IC technology, which permits the integration of power and control devices on a single GaN-on-SOI (silicon-on-insulator) die.
By providing free, open access to this technology for universities worldwide, imec’s goal is to stimulate novel designs and applications that will take full advantage of the capabilities of this unique technology.
The winner will get a free prototype fabrication (excluding packaging) of one standard (5mm x 5mm) block size design on imec’s 650V GaN-IC MPW (multi-project wafer) shuttle in October – representing a value of €30,000. The design has to be taped out on the October GaN-IC MPW run.
Those eligible to apply span researchers from academic institutions and research institutes worldwide that have never prototyped in imec’s GaN-IC technology before.
A two-page application template can be downloaded from www.imeciclink.com/en/design-contest-first-time-users-gan-ic-650v-technology and submitted via e-mail to [email protected]. Multiple applications can be submitted, but a maximum of one design per university can be approved. Submission of proposals is open until 18 August.
The evaluation criteria comprise the following:
- application novelty of the GaN-IC design;
- proposed design methodology;
- clarity of application and credibility of case;
- how this will lead to further research using design and fabrication by your institute.
Proposals will be evaluated by an independent committee and the winner will be informed before 8 September.
