Partner story | VTEC Lasers & Sensors at Semicon09
VTEC Lasers & Sensors: Driving innovation in
Data Communication for Semicon 09
VTEC Lasers & Sensors, a pioneering company in photonics and IoT, has taken on a central role in the Semicon 09 project. Founded in Eindhoven and with decades of optoelectronics expertise, VTEC specializes in developing customized solutions that enhance data creation, transmission, and analysis.
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
Within Semicon 09, VTEC focuses on designing high-speed, power-efficient optical solutions to meet the growing demand for data transmission in data centers and telecommunications networks. By leveraging their extensive knowledge in photonics, VTEC is working to create products that not only drive industry advancements but also contribute to improved quality of life through sustainable solutions.
Completed activities
As a dedicated partner in the Semicon 09 project, VTEC has already achieved several milestones that pave the way for future product development.
Key activities completed so far include:
Design of an ultra-fast InP Mach-Zehnder 1310 nm modulator leveraging quantum-confinement Stark effect for enhanced performance.
Development of a uniform grating coupler on a Silicon Nitride platform, optimized for dual functionality as a filter and a broadband grating coupler.
Execution of test runs to establish a stable process flow within cleanroom environments, ensuring consistency and reliability.
Initiation of dissemination activities to communicate VTEC’s contributions and commitment to advancing photonic technologies.
Future activities
Looking forward, VTEC Lasers & Sensors has mapped out a series of activities to further enhance their contributions within Semicon 09:
Optimization of processing techniques for high-speed data transmission products, advancing beyond initial prototypes.
Enhanced collaboration with consortium partners, including leveraging Morphotonics B.V.’s expertise in nanoimprint lithography to refine VTEC’s manufacturing processes.
Strengthening in-house testing and validation capabilities with an emphasis on experimental automation to streamline prototype assessments.
VTEC expertise
VTEC’s unique combination of in-house expertise, tailored solutions, and commitment to sustainability positions them as a valuable partner in the Semicon 09 project. With a history rooted in optoelectronics innovation, VTEC is committed to delivering solutions that balance high performance with environmental and ethical considerations, adhering to ISO14001 for environmental management and GDPR for data privacy.
Two key projects within Semicon 09 highlight VTEC’s cutting-edge capabilities:
1. Linear Drive Active Optical Cable (AOC) Prototype: In response to the increasing data needs of AI, cloud applications, and data centers, VTEC is developing a prototype for a linear drive AOC that uses optical fibers to achieve high-speed, low-power data transmission. This solution addresses the limitations of copper cables, aiming to drastically reduce data center power consumption and improve overall efficiency.
2. Sub-wavelength Broadband Grating Coupler (SBGC): VTEC is also advancing a SBGC prototype, which has versatile applications in both datacom and telecom markets. The SBGC technology provides new opportunities for optical switching and photonic filtering, offering significant potential for data center applications. Targeted for deployment within co-packaged optics modules, the SBGC is anticipated to meet the demands of rapidly expanding data traffic.
Conclusion
VTEC Lasers & Sensors brings a blend of technical expertise, sustainable practices, and a commitment to tailored solutions to Semicon 09. With a multidisciplinary team of dedicated professionals, VTEC is pushing the boundaries of what is possible in photonic technology. Through innovative designs like the linear drive AOC and SBGC, VTEC’s contributions are poised to shape the future of data communication, ensuring the development of high-speed, efficient, and sustainable technologies that meet the demands of an increasingly connected world.