Keysight Technologies and WIN Semiconductors have introduced a joint Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuit (MMIC) design workflow to reduce fabrication risk for Gallium Nitride (GaN) components used in 5G, satellite, and defense applications. The new workflow connects on-chip multi-domain simulation, 3D layout with verifications, and off-chip MMIC evaluation board design into a single environment. This integration aims to help design houses achieve first pass tapeout success, avoiding the weeks lost to a foundry respin following a failed tapeout.

The workflow automates the full set of simulation, optimization, and verification steps required to sign off on an MMIC design. By ensuring no analysis is skipped before submission to the foundry, the solution addresses a critical bottleneck where customers often delay purchase commitments until performance can be measured on a physical evaluation board. Engineers can now design and optimize on-chip and off-chip components together, ensuring performance meets specifications verified with test equipment.

Market Context and Strategic Importance

With the global GaN RF device market projected to reach $2.77 billion by 2031, the ability to prove performance on an evaluation board is crucial for securing market share. The workflow supports the growing number of companies developing GaN MMICs for 5G base stations, Wi-Fi access points, satellite payloads, and defense radar systems.

Technical Integration

WIN Semiconductors’ latest NP 120P GaN Process Design Kit (PDK) provides MMIC designers with access to process models and layout rules. These models are integrated within Keysight Advanced Design System (ADS) and RF Circuit Simulation Professional to automate the workflow.

Richard Kuo, Director of Design Service at WIN Semiconductors, stated that the collaboration delivers a customized Layout Versus Schematic (LVS) solution within the WIN ADS PDK. He emphasized that combining Keysight's ADS expertise with WIN's robust PDK and advanced process technology provides a comprehensive verification solution that streamlines the customer design flow.

Nilesh Kamdar, General Manager of EDA and Design Engineering Software at Keysight, noted that WIN's complete PDK combined with Keysight's simulation and verification tools gives designers a single path from chip design through evaluation board. This allows design houses to prove full system performance before fabrication, giving customers the confidence to commit.

Keysight Techs has generated significant shareholder value over the past decade, delivering an average annual return of 28.17%. This performance represents a 14.54% outperformance compared to the broader market on an annualized basis. The company currently commands a market capitalization of $62.09 billion.

The substantial growth highlights the impact of compounded returns on long-term capital appreciation. If an investor had purchased $100 worth of Keysight Techs stock 10 years ago, that investment would be valued at $1,209.81 today. This calculation is based on a current share price of $363.64.

Keysight Techs Performance Overview

The following table details the key financial metrics illustrating the company's 10-year trajectory:

The data underscores the potential for significant wealth creation through consistent long-term equity performance. The divergence between the company's returns and the general market emphasizes the value of stock selection in portfolio management.