PhotonDelta, a photonic chip accelerator based in Eindhoven, Netherlands, has announced the opening of a new office in Silicon Valley. This move is part of PhotonDelta’s strategy to foster collaboration between European and North American organizations, both of which are leaders in the emerging field of photonic chip technology. The expansion aims to boost the photonic chip industry by leveraging the strengths of both regions to overcome the limitations of traditional semiconductor technology, thereby accelerating innovation in AI and other advanced applications.
Photonic chips are crucial for developing smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient devices, which are essential for sustainable advancements in AI. These chips not only enhance data center performance and reduce energy consumption but also hold significant potential for quantum computing and sensing solutions in various sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and automotive. To support these innovations, PhotonDelta has secured $1.2 billion in funding to run numerous R&D programs, lead international roadmapping activities, and invest in pioneering startups that utilize photonic integrated circuit (PIC) technology.
PhotonDelta’s new North American hub will bring the Netherlands’ world-class photonic chip capabilities to North American organizations. The PhotonDelta ecosystem includes over 70 organizations, forming a complete value chain from design services to multiple foundries for photonic chip fabrication, packaging, assembly, and testing. This ecosystem also comprises an increasing number of fabless companies that use PIC technology for innovative solutions. Jorn Smeets, Managing Director North America at PhotonDelta, emphasized the importance of this expansion in connecting know-how, expertise, networks, and funding between North America and the Netherlands.
Key Points about PhotonDelta
- Founded: Based in the Netherlands
- Funding: $1.2 billion to support R&D programs and invest in startups
- Platforms: Indium Phosphide (InP), Silicon Nitride (SiN), and a pilot line for Silicon Photonics (SiPh)
- InP PICs: Ideal for communication and sensing applications
- SiN PICs: Suited for detectors, spectrometers, biosensors, and quantum computers
- SiPh PICs: Used in photonic circuits compatible with CMOS fabrication
- Packaging Partner: PHIX
