TowerJazz SiGe process enables high-speed interfaces

The technology is built on the same platform used for the prior two TowerJazz SiGe processes. The new process addresses next-generation needs for high-speed interfaces in communication protocols such as Thunderbolt, optical fiber and high-data rate wireless by improving performance while reducing noise and power consumption of key building blocks. SBC18H3 also targets applications such as automotive collision avoidance systems, millimeter-wave radar and GHz imaging.

SBC18H3 process design kits (PDKs) include mm-wave components important for high-speed designs such as a transmission-line toolbox, p-i-n diodes for RF switching and support for small-size MIM capacitors.

Tower Semiconductor Ltd, a specialty foundry chipmaker which trades under the name TowerJazz, recently announced it is proposing to buy a wafer fab belonging to Micron Technology Inc. in Nishiwaki City, Hyogo prefecture, Japan, for $140 million.

- Mark LaPedus
??EE Times