Cambridge GaN Devices (CGD) has entered a manufacturing partnership with GlobalFoundries (GF) to produce its ICeGaN power devices, in a move aimed at strengthening its supply chain and supporting growing demand for energy-efficient semiconductor solutions.
The collaboration marks a key step in CGD’s fabless strategy, with the company set to leverage GlobalFoundries’ 8-inch CMOS process to scale production of its single-chip gallium nitride (GaN) technology. The agreement is expected to help CGD maintain competitive manufacturing costs while accelerating time-to-market for its products.
CGD’s ICeGaN design integrates a GaN switch, interface, and protection circuitry onto a single chip, in contrast to most multi-chip or co-packaged alternatives. The devices are compatible with standard silicon MOSFET drivers, removing the need for specialist fabrication processes and simplifying adoption for power electronics engineers.
According to CGD, its design flow and modelling approach allows for rapid porting between foundries. Machine learning algorithms are applied to test-chip data to refine design models, enabling faster product development with predictable performance outcomes.
Simon Stacey, Chief Operating Officer at CGD, said the partnership with GlobalFoundries would accelerate the company’s roadmap for next-generation devices. “Applying the CGD design flow to GF’s process design kit enables us to develop and manufacture our next generation GaN power devices much faster,” he said. “GF’s renowned foundry services and commitment to GaN make them a perfect fit for our ICeGaN technology.”
GaN-based power devices offer advantages such as higher efficiency, faster switching speeds, and greater power density compared with traditional silicon transistors. These characteristics are driving adoption across sectors including consumer electronics, renewable energy, and electric vehicles.
Founded as a spin-out from the University of Cambridge, CGD designs and commercialises GaN transistors and integrated circuits that target improved energy efficiency and reduced system size. The company’s ICeGaN technology is already qualified for high-volume production, supported by partnerships across its manufacturing network.
