New Chip Design Workflow Boosts Efficiency for ASEAN Factories

A Game-Changer for Semiconductor Development in ASEAN Countries \\[New Line] The introduction of a joint design workflow by Keysight Technologies and WIN Semiconductors marks a significant step forward in the semiconductor industry, particularly for factories in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia. This innovative platform integrates on-chip simulation, 3D layout verification, and off-chip evaluation board design into a single, streamlined environment, significantly reducing the risk of costly redesigns and project delays. \\[New Line] For ASEAN-based manufacturers, this means a more efficient and reliable process for developing gallium nitride (GaN) monolithic microwave integrated circuits (MMICs). These chips are crucial for applications in 5G infrastructure, Wi-Fi access points, satellite payloads, and defense radar systems. The new workflow automates key steps such as simulation, optimization, and verification before fabrication, allowing engineers to identify and address potential issues early in the development cycle. \\[New Line] In countries like Thailand and Vietnam, where the electronics manufacturing sector is rapidly growing, this technology can be a game-changer. By enabling designers to co-design and optimize the chip, package, printed circuit board (PCB), and test connectors together, the workflow provides a comprehensive understanding of real-world system performance. This not only accelerates the time-to-market but also ensures that the final product meets the stringent quality and performance standards required by customers. \\[New Line] In Indonesia and Malaysia, where there is a strong focus on aerospace and defense, the ability to verify chip designs before sending them for manufacturing is invaluable. The integrated workflow connects Keysight’s design software with WIN Semiconductors’ latest NP 120P GaN Process Design Kit (PDK), providing a unified design environment that streamlines the entire process. This reduces the need for separate software tools and allows engineers to optimize both on-chip and off-chip components before committing to fabrication. \\[New Line] According to Richard Kuo, Director of Design Service at WIN Semiconductors, “By combining Keysight’s ADS expertise with WIN’s robust PDK and advanced process technology, we provided a comprehensive verification solution that streamlined the customer’s design flow and accelerated the time-to-market for advanced RF products with greater confidence and reliability.” \\[New Line] Nilesh Kamdar, General Manager of EDA at Keysight, added, “WIN’s complete PDK, combined with Keysight’s simulation and verification tools, gives designers a single path from chip design through evaluation board. Design houses can now prove full system performance before fabrication, giving their customers the confidence to commit.” \\[New Line] As the demand for GaN radio-frequency devices continues to grow across communications, aerospace, and defense markets, the new workflow is poised to help ASEAN factories stay competitive. Projections indicate that the global GaN RF device market could reach $2.77 billion by 2031, putting pressure on chip developers to shorten design cycles and avoid fabrication errors. \\[New Line] For factory buyers in ASEAN, the takeaway is clear: adopting this integrated design workflow can lead to significant cost savings, faster time-to-market, and higher-quality products. It’s an investment that promises to pay off in the long run, ensuring that ASEAN remains a key player in the global semiconductor industry.