onsemi completes acquisition of SWIR Vision Systems

This acquisition is in line with onsemi’s ongoing commitment to delivering cutting-edge and state-of-the-art intelligent image processing technologies.

onsemi has completed the acquisition of SWIR Vision Systems, a leading provider of colloidal quantum dot (CQD)-based shortwave infrared (SWIR) technology that extends the detectable spectrum of light to enable vision through objects and capture images that were previously impossible.

The acquisition is in line with onsemi’s continued commitment to delivering the most robust, cutting-edge technologies for intelligent image sensing. The integration of SWIR Vision Systems’ patented technology with onsemi’s CMOS sensors will significantly strengthen its intelligent sensing product portfolio and pave the way for continued growth in key markets including industrial, automotive and defense.

CQD uses nanoparticles or crystals with unique optical and electronic properties that can be precisely tuned to absorb extended wavelengths of light. This technology extends the visibility and sensing capabilities of systems beyond the range of standard CMOS sensors to SWIR wavelengths. Until now, SWIR technology has been limited in its application due to the high cost and manufacturing complexity of the traditional indium gallium arsenide (InGAas) process. With this acquisition, onsemi will combine its silicon-based CMOS sensor and manufacturing expertise with CQD technology to deliver highly integrated SWIR sensors at lower cost and larger volumes. The result is more compact, cost-effective imaging systems that offer extended spectra and can be used in a wide range of commercial, industrial and defense applications.

These advanced SWIR sensors are able to see through dense materials, gases, fabrics and plastics, which is essential in many industries, especially industrial applications such as surveillance systems, silicon inspection, machine vision imaging and food inspection. In autonomous vehicle imaging, higher spectra will provide better visibility to see in difficult conditions such as extreme darkness, dense fog or winter glare.

SWIR Vision Systems is now a wholly owned subsidiary of onsemi, and its highly skilled team is integrated into the company’s Intelligent Sensing Group. The team will continue to operate in North Carolina. The acquisition is not expected to have any significant impact on onsemi’s near- to medium-term financial outlook.