AGNIT Semiconductors sets up Rs 3 crore GaN testing lab at IISc to speed up chip validation

AGNIT Semiconductors, a startup specializing in Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology, has inaugurated a state-of-the-art testing and qualification laboratory at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), investing Rs 3 crore in this strategic initiative. This facility is designed to enhance the company's ability to conduct in-house validation and reliability testing of GaN semiconductor components, which are crucial for sectors such as defense communications, telecom infrastructure, satellite systems, and next-generation wireless networks. The establishment of this 350 sq. ft. lab aligns with India's broader objective to bolster its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities and the necessary infrastructure for designing, testing, and qualifying semiconductor technologies locally. "To realize India’s semiconductor ambitions, we need strong domestic capabilities not just in chip design and fabrication, but also in validation and reliability testing," noted Hareesh Chandrasekar, co-founder and CEO of AGNIT Semiconductors. Chandrasekar emphasized that this facility represents a significant step forward in AGNIT’s evolution as it strives to enhance semiconductor technology under the 'Make in India for the world' initiative. The dedicated lab will allow the company to streamline the development process, improve product performance, and better cater to the dynamic needs of customers in telecom and defense sectors. Equipped with advanced tools including environmental testing chambers functioning between -60°C and 125°C, RF test benches, and automated PCB assembly equipment, the lab is set to reduce the time required for board characterization and reliability data generation. Previously, AGNIT depended on shared facilities at IISc for many of its testing needs. The new lab will enable closer collaboration among the company's design, fabrication, and testing teams, ultimately accelerating product development cycles. A skilled team of five to eight engineers and researchers will manage the laboratory, with plans to further expand its capabilities to include accelerated lifetime testing for military-grade semiconductor components, where reliability standards are notably rigorous. To date, AGNIT has successfully raised approximately Rs 60 crore from various investors, including 3one4 Capital and Zephyr Peacock, along with contributions from Lakshmi Narayanan.