IVWorks and IntelliEPI partner on MBE GaN tech
Companies to expand GaN epi-wafers supply with help of AI manufacturing system
IVWorks and IntelliEPI have entered into a strategic partnership to develop a global business based on MBE GaN technology. The two companies have been collaborating closely on the development of production scale of GaN epi wafers by MBE since 2018.
IVWorks, a Korean start-up company that uses Hybrid-MBE technology to produce GaN epi-wafers, has developed a machine learning-based artificial intelligence (AI) epitaxy system called 'Domm', that improves productivity and scalability.
Hybrid-MBE growth is performed with a hybrid nitrogen source of ammonia and plasma for optimal quality and high growth rate. In addition, Domm, the IVWorks' AI technology, uses a deep learning algorithm to detect and analyse reflection high energy electron diffraction (RHEED) patterns, which can monitor crystal growth at the atomic level during MBE growth in real-time.
A prediction model is created by training the validity and correlation of the dataset that integrates classified RHEED patterns, growth conditions, and quality results of the epiwafers. This prediction model can be applied to epiwafer manufacturing to maximize productivity.
IntelliEPI, established in 1999 in Richardson, Texas, specialises in As, P, and Sb based MBE epi wafer production as well as GaSb substrates manufacturing. Its products include a wide range of electrical and optical device epitaxy wafers. IntelliEPI will use its strength in high volume MBE production, equipment modification, and component manufacturing to quickly bring GaN to its product line.
Young-kyun Noh, IVWorks’ CEO, comments: “We are excited by the opportunities that will result from this partnership. By partnering with MBE epi wafer production experts such as IntelliEPI, we will accelerate the role we play in supplying high quality GaN epi-wafers to the global semiconductor industry through the revolutionary AI manufacturing system, while enhancing market penetration and response. Thanks to IntelliEPI’s long experience of compound semiconductor epi wafer business and large-scale production, we will be able to significantly strengthen competitiveness for the GaN epi business.”
Yung-Chung Kao, IntelliEPI’s president and CEO, said: “This partnership will advance MBE GaN growth by combining AI technology from IVWorks and IntelliEPI’s large-scale production MBE growth capabilities and related equipment expertise. IntelliEPI will work closely with IVWorks to develop a global business based on MBE GaN technology for RF and power device markets.”
