The demand for high-speed data connectivity and communications, driven by advancements in smart manufacturing, autonomous vehicles, and artificial intelligence (AI), is prompting the need for innovative solutions requiring multi-disciplinary and mixed-signal design. Canadian IC design startup StarIC has come to Taiwan to offer its expertise in analog and mixed-signal design while forging partnerships with local supply chains for groundbreaking collaborative efforts.
Founded five years ago in Toronto, Canada, StarIC specializes in developing a diverse range of analog circuits critical for various applications, from consumer electronics to high-speed communication systems. As analog circuits become increasingly pivotal in modern technology, StarIC is committed to ensuring that these solutions are accessible across multiple domains within the electronic ecosystem.
“About half of our team have PhDs, and almost everyone has a master's degree. With around 30 dedicated professionals, we collectively bring over 400 years of experience, positioning StarIC to tackle some of the most challenging analog design projects in the market,” said Imran Ahmed, CEO of StarIC, during a presentation at the Canada-Taiwan Co-Innovation Forum on September 6 in Hsinchu.
StarIC’s design portfolio encompasses high-precision sensor applications for the Internet of Things (IoT), high-voltage switch-mode power supplies, and solutions for high-speed data communications. As the demand for advanced electronic systems continues to rise, the focus on silicon photonics has gained prominence. “This emerging technology necessitates highly capable analog mixed-signal designs that can adeptly manage both high-speed data transfers and low-speed precision tasks”, said Michal Fulmyk, Director at StarIC.
The complexities associated with designing electronics for photonics underscore the critical need for expertise in high-speed performance, precision, and design versatility. StarIC’s core strength lies in its electronic design capabilities. The company collaborates with businesses in the photonics sector to foster a robust ecosystem for innovation.
SiPh, ASIC designs, and IP Platform
The company's service offerings are categorized into three primary areas: silicon photonics platforms, custom Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), and analog Intellectual Property (IP) blocks. StarIC’s flexible approach enables close collaboration with clients to provide tailored solutions that meet their specific needs. By offering services that range from providing schematic databases to delivering fully engineered designs, StarIC bridges technological gaps effectively.
Specializing in the design of electronics for silicon photonics, StarIC empowers companies to navigate the complexities of bringing their photonic solutions to market. As businesses increasingly harness world-class photonics expertise, StarIC ensures that their electronic counterparts are equally robust, facilitating successful product launches.
In response to the fast-paced nature of the silicon photonics ecosystem, StarIC has shifted away from conventional licensing models. Instead, the company adopts a platform-based approach, allowing customers to build their products using pre-designed blocks while retaining the flexibility necessary for rapid innovation.
Catching the wave of Silicon Photonics
Looking forward, StarIC is strategically positioned to capitalize on trends such as increased data consumption and advancements in silicon photonics. With data-driving innovations across various sectors—including automotive, where new architectures are revolutionizing vehicle connectivity—StarIC is well-prepared to adapt to these evolving requirements.
The technology sophistication in analog and mixed-signal designs ensures that StarIC's solutions remain integral to a broad spectrum of applications, from consumer electronics to sophisticated machine learning systems. By leveraging its expertise in analog mixed-signal design, StarIC aims to deliver innovative solutions that address the demands of an increasingly data-driven world.
Currently, StarIC has established partnerships with Global Foundries and is eager to expand its presence in Asia. Imran recognizes Taiwan as a vital hub for semiconductor development and emphasizes that StarIC is keen to collaborate with local companies and research institutions. This strategy will allow StarIC to leverage Taiwan’s advanced semiconductor ecosystem while contributing its design expertise, ensuring a robust future for all stakeholders involved.
This is one of the articles in Tech Soda's dedicated feature on Canadian startups.
More on StarIC’s presentation at the Canada-Taiwan Co-Innovation Forum.
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