Partner story | PHIX at Semicon09
PHIX: Elevating Photonic Integration and
Assembly Standards in Semicon 09
As a premier foundry for photonic integrated circuit (PIC) and microelectromechanical system (MEMS) assembly, PHIX brings its extensive expertise to the Semicon 09 project, playing a pivotal role in advancing photonics assembly capabilities. With its state-of-the-art facility in Enschede and an expanding presence in North America, PHIX is dedicated to scaling up the production of PIC-based devices by contributing to the standardization and development of front-end and back-end processes.
Project background:
NXTGEN Inlite (Inspiring Novel Light-Integrated Technology & Equipment)
In this project, efforts are focused on developing production equipment for integrated photonics to enable mass production of these components and devices. The project concentrates on standardizing both front-end and back-end production processes for manufacturing wafers with Photonic Integrated Circuits. The goal is to develop machines for various product families that utilize standard substrates such as SiN and InP. These developments are crucial for assembling the components, integrating various coupling methods. Additionally, the project seeks to advance new process developments in techniques such as PLD and CVD.
Role in Semicon09
Their involvement in Semicon 09 is geared toward enabling high-volume manufacturing for photonic devices, which are increasingly vital in addressing critical global challenges like energy transition, industrial digitalization, and sustainability.
Completed activities
PHIX has completed several foundational activities that contribute directly to advancing the photonics assembly process within Semicon 09.
Key accomplishments to date include:
Collaborating with project partners to establish an initial package of desirable specifi cations for photonics assembly equipment.
Providing a set of requirements that drive the development of next-generation photonic equipment, focusing on optimizing performance and scalability.
Conducting comparative analyses of current equipment and processes to refi ne and update specifications, ensuring alignment with industry advancements and project goals.
Future activities
Looking forward, PHIX has mapped out a series of critical steps to enhance and finalize photonics assembly capabilities within Semicon 09, aiming to establish robust and scalable solutions by 2030.
Continuously refining equipment specifications based on real-world testing and industry feedback.
Expanding collaboration efforts with NXTGEN High Tech partners to improve processes and reduce production costs.
Developing standardized production processes for key substrates, such as silicon nitride (SiN) and indium phosphide (InP), to facilitate scalable photonics assembly for various applications.
PHIX expertise
PHIX’s multidisciplinary expertise positions it as a leader in photonic integration and assembly. With a team proficient in product design, assembly process development, and equipment management, PHIX brings a wealth of knowledge from various industries, optimized to meet the demands of photonics manufacturing. Their experience with major PIC technology platforms—such as indium phosphide, silicon photonics, and silicon nitride—makes them a one-stop-shop for photonics assembly, from initial design to high-volume production.
PHIX’s specialization in chip-to-chip hybrid integration and fiber coupling provides a critical advantage, as these capabilities are essential for creating functional modules that integrate seamlessly into larger systems. By supporting customers throughout the entire product lifecycle, PHIX ensures that devices are optimized for performance, cost, and time to market. Their contribution to developing and standardizing photonics assembly processes within Semicon 09 is key to making photonics technology accessible, scalable, and reliable for a broad range of applications, from telecommunications to advanced data processing.
Conclusion
Through its commitment to innovation and standardization in photonics assembly, PHIX is driving significant advancements in Semicon 09. By combining extensive experience with cutting-edge facilities, PHIX supports the creation of a globally competitive photonics ecosystem capable of addressing some of today’s most pressing technological needs.
As a core partner within the NXTGEN High Tech program, PHIX’s role in refining photonics assembly standards and equipment positions. The Netherlands at the forefront of high-volume photonics manufacturing, ensuring that integrated photonics continues to grow as a transformative technology for a sustainable, digital future.