- Chetan Arvind Patil
- Posts
- Semiconductor And Beyond Newsletter - #210
Semiconductor And Beyond Newsletter - #210
Chetan Arvind Patil
June 09, 2024
The semiconductor industry has long been dedicated to achieving exceptional performance, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, primarily by advancing smaller process nodes. However, the increasing physical and economic challenges of further node shrinking have prompted a strategic shift in focus.
This exciting shift, known as ‘process flavor, ‘is not just a change in direction but a potential game-changer for the semiconductor industry. It involves the development of customized process technologies that are finely tuned for specific applications, marking a significant departure from the previous node-centric approach. With its potential to completely transform the industry, this innovative approach holds great promise for the future.
Read more....
THREADS
The Semiconductor Open Chiplets: Explore the transformative potential of an Open Chiplet Ecosystem, akin to open-source software, fostering collaboration and innovation. Discover how standardized interfaces and cost-effective licensing enable mixing and matching chiplets, streamlining design, and reducing costs. Essential for understanding the future paradigm shift in silicon design.
The Semiconductor Masters Impact: Delve into the value of advanced degrees in electrical engineering and materials science. Learn why practical skills and industry alignment are crucial for career growth. A must-read for aspiring semiconductor professionals.
The Semiconductor Amazing Arizona: Uncover Arizona's evolution as a global semiconductor hub, from historical foundations to current expansions with TSMC and Intel. Learn how the state’s infrastructure and skilled workforce drive its industry leadership. Essential for understanding the region's impact on the semiconductor landscape.
The Semiconductor Reality Vs Opportunities: Examine the dichotomy between industry growth and real career opportunities. Discuss the challenges facing entry-level professionals and the realities of job market expectations. Vital for those considering a career in semiconductors.
The Semiconductor Process Vs FAB Count: Understand the importance of process flavors within semiconductor nodes. Learn how this approach maximizes fab utilization and fosters innovation, providing a versatile and cost-effective manufacturing strategy. Crucial for grasping the future of semiconductor production.
VLOG
In this thought-provoking video, I explore whether the semiconductor industry's focus should be on process nodes or process flavors.
Process nodes, such as 7nm, 5nm, and 3nm, represent technology generations and advancements in miniaturization, performance, and power efficiency.
However, within each node, process flavors provide specialized variations tailored to specific applications, like low power for mobile devices and high performance for data centers. Emphasizing process flavors allows for flexibility and customization, enabling cost-effective utilization of existing FAB infrastructure and driving innovation.
Companies like Intel and Samsung leverage both strategies to stay competitive, balancing the need for cutting-edge nodes with the benefits of diverse process flavors to meet varied market demands.
Ultimately, the future of the semiconductor industry lies in mastering both nodes and flavors to optimize performance, reduce costs, and cater to increasingly specific customer needs.
GOVERNMENT
Tower Semiconductor has expressed interest in establishing a fabrication plant in India, marking a significant development amidst major global players like Intel, Samsung, and Micron showing limited interest in India's semiconductor scheme. While Tata Electronics has secured Taiwan's PSMC as a technology partner, several proposals are awaiting approval, reflecting the government's collaboration with Belgium's IMEC for technology access.
Tower Semiconductor's proposal, pending approval since 2022, emphasizes 65nm technology for analog chip fabrication, promising efficiency for various applications and potential contribution to India's foundry market. Pending Cabinet approval and potential investment partnerships, Tower Semiconductor's $8 billion project awaits materialization, indicating a pivotal opportunity for India's semiconductor landscape.
INDUSTRY
NXP Semiconductor and Vanguard International Semiconductor (VIS) are partnering with TSMC to build a $10 billion 300mm fab in Singapore, called VisionPower Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (VSMC). The fab, set to start production in 2027, will produce power management and mixed-signal devices from 40nm to 130nm. NXP will invest $1.6 billion for a 40% share, focusing on automotive and industrial devices, while VIS will invest $2.4 billion for a 60% share for its foundry business. This joint venture supports NXP’s strategy for competitive cost, supply control, and geographic resilience, and aligns with VIS's commitment to sustainable manufacturing.
Swiss semiconductor startup Synthara has raised over $11 million to launch ComputeRAM, a technology that boosts embedded chip performance and energy efficiency by 100x. Led by Vsquared Ventures and supported by investors and grants, this funding will help integrate in-memory computing into existing microcontroller chips, targeting AI-rich applications like robotics and wearables. Founded in 2019, Synthara aims to revolutionize the $200B embedded chip industry with its innovative approach.
ACADEMIA
Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced a $10 million investment in Michigan's MSTAR initiative, aimed at developing a skilled workforce for semiconductor technology in the automotive industry. This initiative, in partnership with KLA, the University of Michigan, Washtenaw Community College, General Motors, and Belgium's imec, seeks federal funding under the Chips and Science Act to enhance U.S. competitiveness in technology. MSTAR focuses on training programs, research collaborations, and infrastructure development to support semiconductor applications in electrification and autonomous vehicles, creating economic opportunities and strengthening critical supply chains in Michigan.
RESEARCH
ASML has opened a test lab in Veldhoven, Netherlands, for its advanced High NA EUV lithography equipment, developed in collaboration with imec. This lab will provide early access to the prototype scanner for leading chipmakers and suppliers, aiming to accelerate learning and de-risk the technology before its high-volume manufacturing launch in 2025-2026. Currently, only Intel has access to these €350 million machines, which enable the production of smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient chips. This initiative aims to retain Europe's R&D expertise in semiconductor technology.
TOOLS
The FreePDK from NC State's EDA group offers a series of open-source Process Design Kits (PDKs) to facilitate the design of integrated circuits. These kits, which include FreePDK45, FreePDK15, and FreePDK3D45, are tailored for different technology nodes like 45nm, 15nm, and 3D IC technologies respectively. They are compatible with EDA tools from major vendors such as Cadence, Siemens, and Synopsys.
FreePDK45 is extensively used for research and educational purposes, providing a predictive 45nm technology model for the simulation and testing of IC designs. FreePDK3D45 extends capabilities to 3D IC technologies, addressing the additional complexities of 3D integration.
JOBS AND CAREER
SEMICON West serves as a pivotal event for those seeking careers in the semiconductor industry, offering a dynamic environment for networking, accessing the latest technological advancements through exhibitions, and engaging in job fairs where direct interaction with industry leaders and hiring managers facilitates potential employment opportunities.
Additionally, educational sessions and workshops provide valuable insights and skill development, while career development resources aid in refining job search strategies, collectively making SEMICON West an essential platform for advancing one's career in the semiconductor sector.
CONNECT
Whether you are a student with the goal to enter semiconductor industry (or even academia) or a semiconductor professional or someone looking to learn more about the ins and outs of the semiconductor industry, please do reach out to me.
Let us together explore the world of semiconductor and the endless opportunities:
Website: https://www.ChetanPatil.in
Twitter: https://twitter.com/iChetanPatil
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ChetanArvindPatil
|
Reply