TCS and IIT Bombay to Build India’s First Quantum Diamond Microchip Imager

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and  IIT Bombay have collaborated to develop India’s first quantum diamond microchip imager. It is an advanced sensing tool that can precisely examine semiconductor chips without causing any kind of damage to the chips. This technology utilizes quantum diamond microscopy and AI /ML-powered software to image magnetic fields, enabling non-invasive and non-destructive mapping of chips which is similar to an MRI.

The imager leverages defects in the diamond’s structure, called Nitrogen-Vacancy (NV) centers, along with hardware and software to detect and characterize anomalies in semiconductor chips. This technology can identify defects like current leakages and visualize 3D charge flow in multi-layer chips which will significantly improve failure analysis, device development, and optimization processes.

This collaboration between TCS and IIT Bombay aligns with India’s National Quantum Mission to position the country as a global quantum technology leader. This technology has wide applications in microelectronics, biological and geological imaging, and fine-scale magnetic field imaging.

The imager can image magnetic fields, similar to how MRIs work in hospitals. This enables the non-destructive mapping of semiconductor chips, which is crucial given the shrinking size of semiconductors and the limitations of traditional sensing methods

Over the next two years, TCS experts will be working with Dr. Kasturi Saha from IIT Bombay’s Department of Electrical Engineering to develop the imager at the institute’s PQuest Lab.

Dr. Harrick Vin, Chief Technology Officer, TCS, said, “The Second Quantum Revolution is progressing at an unprecedented speed, making it imperative to pool our resources and expertise to build cutting-edge capabilities in sensing, computing, and communication technologies. This initiative will have a transformative impact on various industries and society, with applications ranging from electronics to healthcare, and beyond. By working together, we can drive innovation and create a brighter future for all.”

Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director, IIT-Bombay, said, “This collaboration aims to develop a quantum imaging platform for the non-destructive examination of chips. We are keen to collaborate with industry to translate the ideas, innovations, and research into the technologies and products through such collaborations as well as start-ups that will take India ahead.”

With this project, TCS and IIT Bombay aims to transform various sectors, including electronics and healthcare, and propel India forward through groundbreaking technologies and products aligned with the National Quantum Mission.