SK keyfoundry, an 8-inch pure-play foundry in Korea, launches its fourth-generation (Gen4) 0.18µm BCD process. Primarily, this new process delivers approximately 20% performance improvement over the previous third-generation (Gen3). With this latest addition, SK keyfoundry provides solutions for improved mobile and automotive power semiconductor performance.

Particularly, SK keyfoundry’s Gen4 0.18µm BCD process offers power devices up to 40V with various power device gate inputs such as 3.3V, 5V, and 18V. These can be used in a variety of applications, such as power management IC (PMIC) for servers and laptops, PMIC for DDR5 memory, mobile chargers, audio amplifiers, and automotive gate drivers to meet customer needs. Also, it offers MTP (Multi-Time Programmable) for trimming/OTP (One-Time Programmable) memory, SRAM memory as options to facilitate customer’s product design.

Additionally, SK keyfoundry’s Gen4 0.18µm BCD process meets the automotive quality standard AEC-Q100 Grade 1. Specifically, it ensures IC operation in high-temperature environments of 125°C for use in automotive power semiconductors. Also, the thick IMD (Inter Metal Dielectric) option enables automotive product designs that withstand voltages higher than 15,000V.

Moreover, based on the mass production experience gained from Gen3 0.18µm BCD process and the high level of customer confidence, the company expects Gen4 0.18µm BCD process to contribute to longer battery life for mobile devices. Also, it will promote stable performance with lower heating. Additionally, it will enhance by improving the energy efficiency of power semiconductors for automotive applications.

“We are happy to offer our customers a new fourth-generation 0.18µm BCD process with improved performance,” said Derek D. Lee, CEO of SK keyfoundry.

Moreover, Lee said, “SK keyfoundry will continue to strengthen its competitiveness in semiconductor process technology for power. It will work closely with our customers to expand its business into a variety of applications that will see high growth in the future. Among them are PMICs for AI servers, DDR5 PMIC, automotive gate driver IC.”

-11 September 2024-