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In an effort to strengthen links with Chinese academic and research communities, STMicroelectronics and IC broker Circuits Multi Projects (CMP) have announced that they are to offer Chinese universities access to ST’s advanced CMOS processes for research purposes.

STMicroelectronics has collaborated with over 100 European and North American universities in the past, offering design rules and kits for its 65nm bulk CMOS process. The company now wishes to expand its horizons and begin cooperation in a similar fashion with Chinese universities.

Any ICs designed by the universities will be certified by ST, while CMP will cover the distribution and delivery and the overall technical support aspects of the transactions. Last year, ST used approximately 180 university-designed ICs in applications such as 3G wireless, RF and power management. Working with Chinese universities will see new designs and processes brought to the fore with the additional benefit on the part of the students of having real silicon and design kits with which to work and perform research.

“ST believes that it is increasingly important that university students and researchers worldwide have access to the most advanced technologies for the future benefit of the semiconductor industry, in addition to reinforcing opportunities for academic and research communities,” said Laurent Perier, Director, China IC Design Centers, STMicroelectronics. “Ensuring that Chinese universities have access to our leading-edge technologies is testimony of our commitment to work with Chinese partners in their path towards innovation.”

STMicroelectronics is currently working on research projects with TsinHua University, TongJi University and ICT, offering access via CMP to its advanced processes, which include 120nm, 90nm and 65nm CMOS technologies.

By Síle Mc Mahon