Our university spin-off company Sigitronics (CEO: Professor Shim Gyu-hwan) has attracted attention by developing a core component that can safely protect IT devices from electrostatic discharge and electromagnetic interference.

Professor Shim Gyu-hwan (Department of Semiconductor Science and Technology) reported that Sigitronics has succeeded in developing an ESD/EMI filter (electrostatic discharge/electromagnetic interference filter)—a core IT component for wireless communications and high‑performance displays—with world‑leading performance.

The ESD/EMI filter is a key component that minimizes electromagnetic interference (EMI) on high‑speed communication lines connected to speakers, microphones, USB ports, and displays of wireless communication devices such as smartphones, while simultaneously protecting low‑voltage communication circuits from electrostatic discharge (ESD).

However, ESD/EMI filters manufactured as semiconductor devices have been entirely dependent on imports. With Sigitronics' new product development, full domestic production is now possible, and exports to markets such as the United States, Japan, and China may be feasible. Annual sales are projected to reach the 100 billion won range by 2017.

This product adopts a TVS (Transient Voltage Suppressor) semiconductor device—developed using proprietary technology—to control voltage in the ESD/EMI filter. Compared with conventional Zener diodes, TVS devices have much lower electrical resistance and therefore offer superior protection against electrostatic discharge.

It also features ultra‑high durability that is twice as resistant to electrical shock compared with existing products. It exhibits strong resistance to electrostatic discharge at both room temperature and high temperature (180°C), and it can significantly reduce electromagnetic interference noise.

In addition, by applying advanced IPD (Integrated Passive Device) semiconductor technology, the component size has been minimized while transmission speed has been increased. The product is therefore capable of protecting communication circuits evolving to speeds of 500 Mbps and above.

Sigitronics currently has a production system capable of manufacturing 1 million units per month. In 2013, the company plans to expand facilities and equipment for mass production to increase output to over 10 million units per month.

Professor Shim stated, "The developed ESD/EMI filter adopts our unique, proprietary TVS, making it a semiconductor filter chip with world‑class performance. It is the first domestic product to employ a bidirectionally operating TVS. We plan to focus on high‑value products by developing specialized versions for automobiles, medical devices, and displays, in addition to wireless communications products."