Bosch, SiTime Team on Next-Gen MEMS Resonators

Bosch and SiTime announce a strategic technology partnership to accelerate innovation in micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) timing.

SiTime will work with Bosch to develop processes for next-generation MEMS resonator products. These resonators are the heartbeat of 5G, Internet of Things and automotive electronics, and will enable the higher speeds of 5G, long battery life of IoT devices and increased reliability of driver-assistance systems in automotive, SiTime says in a news release.

Bosch will utilize its expertise in MEMS manufacturing to produce these resonators for SiTime and ensure availability of high-volume capacity.

Santa Clara, CA-based SiTime has brought innovative MEMS timing solutions to the $6 billion timing industry. The company has shipped over 1 billion units to all electronics markets, claims more than 90% of the MEMS timing market and has partnered with industry leaders such as Intel to drive timing innovation in 5G.

MEMS timing devices are found in millions of telecom, enterprise and consumer electronic products, enabling mobile phones, high-speed trains and stock markets to stay on time.

“Stable, reliable MEMS timing devices are needed for successful operation of new, high-bandwidth 5G, IoT and driver assistance systems,” says Jens Fabrowsky, executive vice president-Automotive Electronics at Bosch. “Without ultra-precise timing, the benefits and opportunities for next-generation systems will not be achieved.

“With Bosch’s MEMS leadership and manufacturing excellence, and SiTime’s groundbreaking MEMS timing technology, this partnership will make possible unique new features and mission-critical services in 5G, IoT and automotive applications.”

Adds SiTime CEO Rajkesh Vashist: “Since 2009 SiTime has counted on Bosch to manufacture more than a billion MEMS resonators. Over the next decade, the 5G, IoT and automotive markets will drive the growth of the timing industry by creating a 200 billion-unit opportunity.”

Bosch developed the manufacturing process behind MEMS technology nearly 25 years ago and says it has sold more than 9.5 billion MEMS sensors since 1995. The company says more than one of every two smartphones worldwide uses a Bosch MEMS sensor.