Objectives

Our vision is to develop a robust and scalable semiconductor testing platform that can accelerate the autonomous development of the EU semiconductor industry. POPCORN is therefore a crucial step to advance our solution both technologically and business-wise. As such, the main goal of the POPCORN project is to deliver a fully integrated prototype of a DAT software platform (DAT platform), supported by a strong business case, satisfying end-user needs that has been successfully tested in a relevant environment. This prototype version will leverage the previously modelled defects, combined with the unique approach of DAT and will be ready to be tested by semiconductor companies such as IMEC and ST.

Our DAT scientific research has focused on many individual modelled defects with state-of-the-art testing algorithms, however for commercialisation it is essential that these findings can be processed from a single software
platform.

To reach our project’s end goal, bringing our DAT technology to TRL6, we identified the following three pillars to which we will dedicate our resources:

1. Desirability (do customers care?): The most promising use-case of DAT is that of Test Development performed by manufacturers of emerging memory technologies. Here, the user of our testing platform develops appropriate test solutions for their design. Since defects are costliest at the design stage, they will have the highest drive to lower them and therefore consider novel testing approaches. By inserting their layout into the DAT platform, they
   can generate test solutions, test cost indications and quantifiable defect and fault coverage.
2. Feasibility (can we build and deliver?): Ensure the development of a robust prototype software platform that is appropriately designed, tested and documented to stand up against commercial scrutiny from potential buyers. As innovation from start-up companies is understandably seen as risky in an industry that’s rewarded based on defects per million, the robustness of our DAT platform is non-negotiable.
3. Viability (can we earn money?): Next to developing our robust DAT platform prototype, through POPCORN we
   will deliver a business plan outlining our commercial development plan and future funding needs. (can we earn money?): Next to developing our robust DAT platform prototype, through POPCORN we will deliver a business plan outlining our commercial development plan and future funding needs.