Following the collaboration with Taiwan-based PSMC to build a 300mm wafer fab in India, Tata Electronics plans to expedite the operation of the fab with tools provided by Synopsys.
According to Business Standard, Mint, and NDTV, Tata Electronics signed an MoU with US-based Synopsys to collaborate on process technology and a foundry design platform at India's first semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera.
Synopsys' expertise will support Tata's semiconductor facilities in Gujarat and Assam, which cost INR910 billion (US$10.91 billion) and INR270 billion, respectively, producing chips for applications in automotive, mobile devices, AI, etc. Once the fab is operational, Tata Electronics will be able to use Synopsys' foundry design platform to design custom semiconductor products for clients.
According to the reports, the collaboration encompasses Technology Computer-Aided Design (TCAD) flow setup, development of process design kits and design enablement, IP development, advanced factory automation, and yield data analytics solutions to establish an AI-enabled fab, ensuring a smooth and efficient production process.
Randhir Thakur, managing director and CEO at Tata Electronics, said the company has a bold vision of becoming the world leader in electronics manufacturing. Thakur added that the company views Synopsys as a key partner and accelerator in the journey.
Mint quoted an unnamed source saying that Synopsys, a key player in the semiconductor supply chain with numerous global clients, could significantly enhance the appeal of the Dholera chip fab. This partnership is expected to attract major clients to the facility, which will be a critical early test for the fab. Failure to attract clients from key industries could damage India's reputation in the semiconductor sector.
However, according to the unnamed source, there are concerns about whether Tata Electronics will be able to have the semiconductor fabrication plant operational by the end of 2026. The complexity of chip fabs, which involve intricate and advanced technology, poses significant challenges that could affect the timeline for getting the plant up and running. Taiwan-based PSMC is aiding Tata Electronics in constructing a 300mm wafer fab, but PSMC will not engage itself in the operation of the fab.
