"Our focus is to address semiconductor device and material challenges at 10 nanometers and beyond," said Aaron Thean, director of the logic program at imec, Inc. "Collaborating with Synopsys, the market and technology leader in TCAD, helps us maximise the impact and reach of our advanced research programs."
Imec is partnering with leading IC companies for research in advanced CMOS scaling. Device scaling beyond feature-size reduction requires research on a range of new technologies, including new materials, device architectures, 3-D integration, and photonics. The collaboration between imec and Synopsys specifically focuses on the development and optimisation of new device architectures based on FinFETs and tunnel FETs (TFETs). At this week's IEEE International Electron Devices Meeting (IEDM 2012, San Francisco, USA, December 8-10, 2012), imec presented a paper on the use of stressors to boost carrier mobility, which is critical to scale FinFET devices at 10 nm and beyond. Insights and understanding obtained through the usage of Synopsys' TCAD tools will allow imec to accelerate this research.
"This expanded collaboration with imec enables us to extend Synopsys' industry-leading TCAD simulation tool for next generation FinFET device modeling and development," said Howard Ko, general manager and senior vice president of the silicon engineering group at Synopsys. "Imec is recognised worldwide for its expertise, excellent research facilities and industry focus, and our partnership will help to further advance our TCAD solutions."
About imec
Imec performs world-leading research in nanoelectronics. Imec leverages its scientific knowledge with the innovative power of its global partnerships in ICT, healthcare and energy. Imec delivers industry-relevant technology solutions. In a unique high-tech environment, its international top talent is committed to providing the building blocks for a better life in a sustainable society. Imec is headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, and has offices in Belgium, the Netherlands, Taiwan, US, China, India and Japan. Its staff of close to 2,000 people includes more than 600 industrial residents and guest researchers. In 2011, imec's revenue (P&L) was about 300 million euro. Further information on imec can be found at www.imec.be.