News: Optoelectronics
4 September 2023
Vector evaluating Sivers’ InP100 epi for surface-coupling laser project
IC and integrated module supplier Sivers Semiconductors AB of Kista, Sweden says that its subsidiary Sivers Photonics of Glasgow, Scotland, UK has received an initial order from Vector Photonics Ltd (which was spun off from the University of Glasgow in 2020) for the evaluation of epitaxial material — manufactured on Sivers’ InP100 platform — for a new, next-generation surface-coupling laser project.
The order, which includes laser fabrication and life testing, will be the first time that both Glasgow-based companies have worked together on a collaborative project. The collaboration with Sivers Photonics means that the project will be fulfilled entirely within the Scottish photonics cluster.
“Vector Photonics operates a ‘fabless’ business model, outsourcing wafer fabrication to semiconductor foundry partners around the world,” notes Vector’s sales & marketing director Euan Livingston. “Sivers Photonics is an ideal fabrication partner for Vector Photonics in every aspect. Furthermore, the proximate location of the businesses supports a particularly close working relationship, with clear benefits to in-depth development and R&D working.”
“Vector Photonics’ fabless business model is established and proven for prototype, pre-production and production requirements and volumes. It builds resilience, flexibility and scalability into our supply chain; allows for rapid scaling; and frees up the company to focus on developing high-value application IP in datacoms and wider markets,” Livingston continues. “The order with Sivers Photonics helps to establish the required quality and life testing of our laser materials and is a significant part of our ongoing commercialization of surface-coupling laser devices,” he adds.
“We are delighted to partner with Vector Photonics on this project, using our expertise to support the commercialization of next-generation surface-coupling lasers whilst also continuing to strengthen Scotland’s strong position as a global leader in photonics,” says Andy McKee, chief technology officer & interim managing director at Sivers Photonics. “Following the successful wafer fabrication and testing phases and utilizing our proven foundry capabilities, we will enable Vector Photonics to deliver to their customers at scale,” he adds.
“Surface-coupling lasers offer great performance by reducing power consumption, latency, size and costs and will be a great solution for the data-center market,” reckons Sivers Semiconductors’ CEO Anders Storm.
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