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Foundry and MPW
We support you from selecting a photonics foundry, through design with a PDK, to prototyping and manufacturing by MPW or a Dedicated Run. It is the same point of contact as for simulation.
Technology platforms
We will propose a platform to suit your target wavelength, component set and volume requirements. Detailed process specifications and current schedules are given on the individual platform pages and on request.
A platform suited to PICs with active components such as modulators and photodetectors. We advise on process, MPW schedule and coverage according to your requirements.
PICOptical transceiversSensing
Low loss and a wide transparency window are its strengths. It is chosen for passive circuits and for applications from the visible to the near infrared. We can advise on the LIGENTEC SiN platform.
Low-loss circuitsVisible and near infraredBiosensing
A platform on which emitting and amplifying components such as lasers and SOAs can be monolithically integrated. We can advise on the SMART Photonics InP platform.
Laser integrationActive devicesOptical communications
Delivery model
An MPW is a manufacturing route under standard process conditions in which several projects share one wafer run. A Dedicated Run is a manufacturing run prepared for one specific project, where the standard MPW conditions cannot meet the requirements.
| MPW (Multi-Project Wafer) | Dedicated Run | |
|---|---|---|
| Method | A wafer shared between several projects | A manufacturing run dedicated to one project |
| Where it fits | Prototyping and design verification | Requirements a standard MPW cannot meet, and prototyping or manufacturing under dedicated conditions |
| Process | Within the MPW process and options the foundry defines | Changes not possible in an MPW can be considered |
| Schedule | Varies by platform and by run. Please contact us. | Arranged case by case. |
| How cost works | Manufacturing cost shared between several projects | Confirmed and quoted case by case according to requirements |
Schedule, coverage and cost differ by foundry and platform and are fixed for each run. They are subject to change.
From design to manufacturing
Manufacturing data is prepared in line with the PDK and design rules, drawing on the data from your simulation and design. The stages differ by project, and we work through the right approach with you according to your requirements.
Establishing the design target and the requirements.
Signing an NDA and selecting the material platform.
Design and simulation based on the PDK.
Creating the layout and checking the design rules.
Organizing and verifying the manufacturing data, including the GDS.
The foundry checks the submitted data and the required items.
Manufacture and delivery on the schedule of each run.
The detail of each stage and the deliverables required differ by target platform and by the run you join.
Working with the design workflow
Analysis and simulation in Ansys Lumerical, and the photonics design workflow in Photonica, carry through to manufacturing preparation. At the manufacturing stage, design data is checked against the target foundry’s PDK and design rules and manufacturing data such as GDS is prepared.
Analysis and simulation
A photonics design workflow platform
Prototyping and manufacturing (MPW / Dedicated Run)
Solutions
The whole design workflow including prototyping, for silicon photonics, SiN photonics, InP photonics and more, is covered under Solutions.
August 28, 2026
You do not need to have chosen a platform. We are happy to discuss a foundry project.