SK keyfoundry Introduces Advanced High-Voltage BCD Process
SK keyfoundry, a prominent player in the semiconductor foundry sector, has recently launched its innovative fourth-generation 200V high-voltage 0.18-micron BCD (Bipolar-CMOS-DMOS) process. This new development promises to significantly enhance product offerings in the automotive and AI power semiconductor markets.
Market Demand for High-Voltage Semiconductors
As the electrification of vehicles progresses and AI data centers expand, there is a surging demand for high-performance, high-voltage power semiconductors. Automakers are evolving their electrical systems from traditional 12V architectures to advanced 48V systems, while AI infrastructure requires operating voltages that can rise from 380V DC up to 800V DC. This shift highlights the need for semiconductor technologies that can manage high voltages effectively while ensuring efficiency in power delivery.
Improvements in Process Technology
SK keyfoundry's new BCD process showcases a remarkable enhancement over its predecessor, featuring more than a 20% improvement in Rsp (specific on-resistance) and BVDSS (breakdown voltage). This increases power efficiency and ensures high-temperature reliability, a critical factor in automotive applications. For manufacturers, these enhancements translate into lower on-resistance devices that minimize chip area and power loss, thus making the process highly competitive.
Key Features of the New BCD Process
Among the standout features of this latest BCD process is the Thick Insulation Material Dielectric (IMD) option, which efficiently transmits digital signals while simultaneously blocking unwanted high voltage and noise. This innovation is vital for high-current PMIC devices utilizing both BCD and HV MOSFET technologies. Additionally, the process supports a variety of embedded memory types such as SRAM, MTP, OTP, and Hall sensors, which are essential for precision motor control and enhance design flexibility.
Diverse Applications of the New Process
The versatility of SK keyfoundry's latest process allows it to be effectively utilized across a wide array of applications. It can be employed in the development of high-voltage power management ICs, motor drivers, LED drivers, and power supply gate drivers. A key advantage is that this new process meets the rigorous automotive reliability qualifications set by AEC-Q100 Grade 0, ensuring its immediate viability in automotive electronic components that require exceptional reliability under challenging environmental conditions.
Industry Insights and Future Goals
Derek D. Lee, the CEO of SK keyfoundry, highlighted the increasing demand for power semiconductor solutions as AI and automotive systems escalate their power needs. He noted that there are few foundries capable of offering high-voltage BCD technologies based on bulk silicon, making their emergence in mass production a significant achievement. The company is committed to evolving its processes to adapt to the dynamic demands of the power semiconductor marketplace.
About SK keyfoundry
Based in Korea, SK keyfoundry specializes in providing Analog and Mixed-Signal foundry services, catering to a wide spectrum of industries including automotive, consumer electronics, communications, computing, and industrial sectors. Their diverse technological portfolio allows SK keyfoundry to effectively address the evolving needs of semiconductor manufacturers around the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the key feature of SK keyfoundry's new process?
The new process features significant improvements in power efficiency and temperature reliability, with enhanced specific on-resistance and breakdown voltage.
How does the new BCD process impact the automotive market?
It meets high reliability standards required for automotive applications, allowing for immediate integration into electronic components.
What applications can utilize the new 200V BCD process?
The process can be used for high-voltage power management ICs, motor drivers, LED drivers, and more.
Why are there limited foundries capable of providing this technology?
High-voltage BCD processes based on bulk silicon are complex and require specialized capabilities that not all foundries possess.
What does SK keyfoundry plan for the future?
SK keyfoundry aims to continuously advance its technology in line with the evolving demands of the power semiconductor market.
