Curious about where innovation meets practical application in the world of microelectronics? Here at the Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart, cutting-edge research shapes the future of technology. The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart is not just a research facility. It is a hub where ideas are transformed into tangible solutions.
Founded on July 18 1983, the Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart emerged from a need to bolster Germany’s microelectronics industry. The Baden-Württemberg state government initiated its creation with the support of industry giants like Daimler-Benz IBM SEL and Siemens. The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart was among the first institutions established in Germany. It aimed to support domestic companies. These companies needed to compete in the global microelectronics market.
Today the Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart operates as a non-profit foundation under civil law. It thrives on the Stuttgart-Vaihingen research campus. With around 100 employees led by Joachim Burghartz the institute focuses on silicon technology application-specific integrated circuits ASIC nanostructuring and image sensor technology.
The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart operates under the trade name IMS CHIPS. It functions as a microchip manufacturer and provider of process services. Its funding follows the “thirds principle”. One third comes from industry revenues. Another third comes from public funding. The final third is a basic grant from the state of Baden-Württemberg.
One key area is nanostructuring. This involves creating structures at the nanometer scale. The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart uses microchip manufacturing methods for this. These structures find use far beyond microelectronics. One important application is in optical elements made from nanostructured quartz. The institute’s precision allows the creation of computer-generated holograms and diffractive optical elements.
The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart excels in developing ultra-thin microchips. Professor Joachim Burghartz received the Baden-Württemberg State Research Prize in 2009. This recognized his work on a method for producing these chips.
Application-Specific Integrated Circuits ASICs are another specialty. These microchips are custom-designed for specific clients. They are used in control systems sensor technology and security applications. ASICs from the Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart can be found in everything from simple remote controls to complex space applications like the TerraSAR-X and TanDEM-X radar satellites.
The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart also develops CMOS image sensors with logarithmic pixel cells. These HDRC sensors offer exceptional brightness dynamics compared to traditional sensors. This technology is used in the SafetyEYE camera system which enhances safety in production halls by monitoring hazardous areas. These sensors are even used in medical technology such as retinal implants.
Beyond research the Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart is committed to education. Since 1992 it has offered a summer course for students called “Schülerinnen und Schüler machen Chips” Students gain hands-on experience in microelectronics. They even build their own digital clocks using ASICs.
The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart collaborates with the INES at the University of Stuttgart. It provides students and researchers with access to its facilities. Together with the Technische Akademie Esslingen TAE the institute offers a certification course on microelectronics technology.
The Institut für Mikroelektronik Stuttgart continues to push the boundaries of microelectronics. It is dedicated to innovation practical application and education. This ensures its lasting impact on the field.