Key Takeaways
- Pat Gelsinger is now a general partner at Playground Global, focusing on semiconductor startup xLight.
- xLight has a preliminary $150 million deal with the U.S. Commerce Department.
- The startup aims to revolutionize lithography using free electron lasers.
- The deal is part of the Chips and Science Act under the Trump administration.
- xLight plans to produce its first commercial system by 2029.
Pat Gelsinger’s New Role
After leaving Intel, Pat Gelsinger has taken on a new challenge as a general partner at Playground Global, a venture firm. Among the startups he is working with, xLight has captured significant attention. This semiconductor startup is developing technology that could potentially revive Moore’s Law, a principle stating that computing power should double every two years.
The xLight Initiative
xLight has announced a preliminary deal with the U.S. Commerce Department for up to $150 million, making the government a significant shareholder. The company is focused on solving the semiconductor industry’s bottleneck in lithography. Their approach involves using massive “free electron lasers” powered by particle accelerators to etch microscopic patterns onto silicon wafers.
Technological Ambitions
- Free Electron Lasers: xLight plans to build machines the size of a football field that generate extreme ultraviolet light at precise wavelengths.
- Partnerships: xLight is working closely with ASML and Zeiss to integrate their technology with existing lithography scanners.
- Timeline: The company aims to produce its first silicon wafers by 2028 and have a commercial system online by 2029.
Government Involvement
The xLight deal is the first award under the Chips and Science Act in Trump’s second term, aimed at supporting early-stage companies with promising technologies. The deal is currently at the letter of intent stage, meaning details could still change.
Challenges and Opportunities
While xLight faces hurdles, such as finalizing agreements and securing commitments from major chipmakers, the company sees potential in treating light as a utility. This approach could offer a scalable solution to the limitations of current lithography technologies.
FAQ
What is xLight’s main technological innovation?
xLight is developing free electron lasers to generate extreme ultraviolet light for semiconductor manufacturing, aiming to overcome current lithography limitations.
How is the U.S. government involved with xLight?
The U.S. Commerce Department has a preliminary deal to invest up to $150 million in xLight, making it a significant shareholder.
When does xLight plan to have its technology commercially available?
xLight aims to have its first commercial system online by 2029.
Summary
Pat Gelsinger’s involvement with xLight highlights a strategic effort to address semiconductor industry challenges and revive Moore’s Law. For businesses running their own software or systems, staying informed about such technological advancements is crucial for future-proofing their operations and maintaining competitive advantage.
Source: Pat Gelsinger wants to save Moore’s Law, with a little help from the Feds – techcrunch.com