Grenoble based collaboration to research 3d ics and photonics integration

The NanoElec IRT is supported by CEA-Leti, STMicroelectronics and Mentor Graphics, along with a range of other organisations. Between them, the partners are aiming to conduct world class R&D focused on 3d ic integration and integrated silicon photonics. The main objective of the program is to validate an overall approach to 3d ic integration through a dedicated technological platform, taking into account the design, technological processes and characterisation aspects. "As with 3d ic integration, silicon photonics has been the subject of joint work between CEA and ST for several years," said Philippe Magarshack, ST's corporate vice president for design enablement and services. "Thanks to NanoElec IRT, the key players and all the design and technology means can work together to accelerate developments and open the applications field." The collaborators say there are many technical challenges to be met before photonic functions can be integrated onto a silicon circuit. These include: cad tools; and developing specific components, like laser sources, optical modulators and wide bandwidth photodetectors. Laurent Malier, ceo of CEA-Leti, added: "I am delighted of the collaboration with Mentor Graphics, whose expertise in cad tools will be able to make CEA-Leti and ST's advanced technological achievements better available to systems and applications designers."