Scintil integrates III-V lasers with silicon photonics at tower semiconductor

Scintil’s fully integrated circuits are made from a proprietary technology, relying on standard Si photonics and enabling the monolithic integration of lasers and amplifiers to bring improved performance, speed, reliability, and high-density at low power consumption for datacentre, AI, and 5G applications.

Fabricated on Tower’s high-volume base PH18M silicon photonics foundry technology, which includes low-loss waveguides, photodetectors, and modulators, Scintil’s technology monolithically integrates DFB lasers and amplifiers on the backside of wafers. Further testing of Scintil’s circuits by customers showed no need for a hermetic package, while demonstrating improved ageing and robustness.

"We are delighted to highlight our collaboration with Tower Semiconductor, a leading global foundry,” said Sylvie Menezo, President and CEO of Scintil Photonics. “In our commitment to advancing communication technology and products, our work together marks a significant milestone. Thanks to our long-time collaboration, we are well-positioned to deliver Laser-augmented Silicon Photonic ICs that redefine integration, performance, and scalabillity. This will position Scintil for high-volume production to meet market demands. In addition, our technology exhibits remarkable opportunities to accommodate the integration of more materials, such as Quantum Dot and Lithium Niobate materials.”

According to the market research firm LightCounting, the silicon photonics transceiver market is expected to rise at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24%, reaching a total addressable market (TAM) of at least $7 billion in 2025.

“We are excited to support Scintil in this highly integrated solution that makes use of proven production building blocks from Tower,” said Edward Preisler, Vice President and General Manager of the RF Business Unit of Tower Semiconductor. “The integration of III-V optical amplifiers/lasers aligns with Tower Semiconductor's commitment to bringing to market cutting-edge silicon photonic technologies.”