Neways Pioneers in Miniaturization

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Neways Electronics International N.V. has taken an important step in the development of high-density ceramic substrates. This new development enables Neways to use existing conventional screen printing techniques to apply structures of less than 50μm line/gap spacing to ceramic substrates, which is a breakthrough in the miniaturization of integrated electronics.  

The development, initiated by Neways Group company Neways Micro Electronics, makes possible electronic connections between fine pitch integrated circuits (or advanced IC packages) on minimal surfaces. The use of lithographic techniques also makes this a cost-efficient process.  

This development is in line with the continuing miniaturization of integrated electronics. Components are becoming ever smaller, while at the same time being equipped with greater functionality and have to be placed closer to the source, for instance on a motor or in a valve. This innovation has numerous potential applications in a range of different sectors, for instance, in virtually invisible hearing aids, opto-electronic data-transmitters, medical implants or car sensors.    

Daniel Mitcan, manager engineering at Neways Micro Electronics, said, “It is a generally accepted rule that the number of transistors on a chip doubles every two years (Moore’s Law). However, it was a long time before the ceramic carrier became correspondingly smaller. What makes this project special is that we abandoned conventional methods – which have been in general use for 20 years – and that allowed us to take a fresh look at advanced lithographic techniques. A combination of these techniques creates unique hybrid circuits with extremely fine structures that can be produced at conventional, low costs. This will enable us to meet the growing demand for ever smaller and more integrated electronics in the period ahead.”  

The findings will be presented at the 13th Ceramic Interconnect and Ceramic Microsystems Technologies conference, which will be held in Nara, Japan, from April 19–21, 2017.

About Neways

Neways Electronics International N.V. (Neways) is an international company active in the EMS (Electronic Manufacturing Services) market. Neways offers its clients custom-made solutions for the complete product life cycle (from product development to after-sales service) of both electronic components and complete (box-built) electronic control systems. Neways operates in a niche of the EMS market and focuses primarily on small to medium-sized specialist series, in which quality, flexibility and time-to-market play a crucial role. Neways products are used in sectors such as the semi-conductor, medical, automotive, telecom and defence industries. Neways has operating companies in the Netherlands, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia and China, with a total of 2,612 employees at year-end 2016. Neways recorded net turnover of € 393 million in 2016. Neways shares are listed on the Euronext Amsterdam stock exchange (symbol: NEWAY). For more information, click here.