IMEC and Sony sign research collaboration programs on fundamental technologies for next-generation semiconductor systems and devices

Citation

(2001), "IMEC and Sony sign research collaboration programs on fundamental technologies for next-generation semiconductor systems and devices", Microelectronics International, Vol. 18 No. 2. https://doi.org/10.1108/mi.2001.21818bab.016

IMEC and Sony sign research collaboration programs on fundamental technologies for next-generation semiconductor systems and devices

IMEC and Sony sign research collaboration programs on fundamental technologies for next-generation semiconductor systems and devices

Keywords IMEC, Sony

IMEC and Sony Corporation have signed a research collaboration program in the areas of wireless local area network (WLAN) and bipolar CMOS process technology.

The growing market pressure for high-performance semiconductors compels the industry to introduce new technologies at an unprecedented speed. This, together with intensifying technological challenges, can generate enormous investments in R&D, which necessitates global collaboration efforts between companies, independent laboratories and academia.

In light of this, IMEC launched Industrial Affiliation Programs (IIAP) in which companies from all over the world participate to jointly develop next-generation semiconductor technologies on the basis of cost sharing and risk reduction.

In the area of broadband WLAN, Sony will participate in the IIAP to attain IMEC's advanced system know-how and designing/modeling methodologies for 5GHz WLAN solutions. Results of the collaboration will be transferred to Sony to facilitate the development of its proprietary WLAN device solution for future wireless consumer electronic products. Sony's engineers will participate in the IIAP as resident researchers for a period of two years.

In addition to the IIAP, the two companies agreed to enter into a technology transfer program, in which modules of IMEC's Bipolar CMOS process technology will be transferred to Sony. Bipolar CMOS technology will foster the development of high-speed analog ICs that will become necessary to process high frequency signals for next-generation consumer electronic products in the broadband network era.