The need for faster Photonic integrated technology is about to skyrocket. In fact, this market may even become much bigger than anyone is expecting. More people use social media sites and apps to share pictures, videos, live streams, and virtual reality experiences than ever before. Generations after us will continue to be brought up in the age of social media, Internet of Things (IoT), digital healthcare, and cloud computing, which each require ever-increasing network speeds and greater bandwidths.
Photonic integrated circuits (PIC's) are the bedrock of this market. The use of optical components in the large-scale data center market is expected to grow by approximately 700 percent over the next eight years, with a value of over $400 million by 2024.
Why burn-in?
To succeed, PIC's need to be fast, and reliably so. For light sources, this means applying a burn-in process — a continuous period of operation in order to check for defects. Here are 4 key reasons why device manufactures need to burn-in their devices.
1. Maximize throughput
As a device manufacture working in the production level of device development, the goal is to achieve a maximum throughput of reliable devices reaching the field, in the most cost effective way. Many firms still employ engineers to test devices individually but as the volume of devices ramps up – it’s more cost effective to use automated equipment. This is why Yelo’s burn-in racks are designed to test Photonic devices in high volume to help device manufacturers achieve their goal.
2. Reduce warranty costs
By maximizing reliable device throughput you will ultimately lower warranty costs in the long run i.e. field visits, engineering resource/salaries, flights and hotels. While investing in a burn-in system can seem like a high initial investment, it saves so many headaches in the long run.
3. Maintain positive reputation
When you maintain a steady flow of reliable devices to the end customer, it helps your company to maintain a positive reputation. Word of mouth can spread so quickly today, so one or two shipments of poor/unreliable devices can lead to a damaged reputation in the industry and potential customers may be put off wanting to deal with you.
4. Win repeat orders
This links in with point 3, but it’s important to reiterate the importance of having a positive image in the industry. With the growth in Photonics and investment pouring in, it means more competition for device manufactures. The device manufactures that successfully capture market share and win repeat orders will be the ones that can ensure a consistent throughput of reliable devices reaching the end customer.
About Yelo
Yelo are a leading designer and manufacturer of automated high volume burn-in and life test equipment for Photonic devices, especially laser diodes. More information on burn-in can be found HERE.
