🎙️ Robotics, DeepTech & India's Journey Towards a Smarter Future 🇮🇳 | Guest : Dr. Miithun Manalikandy

 

What does it take to evolve from a technologist into a business leader? 🌱

How will robotics transform the way we live, work, heal, manufacture, and build the future? 🤔 And most importantly, can India become a global leader in robotics and deep technology? 🚀 In our latest episode of The Semiconductor Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Miithun Manalikandy an accomplished technology and business leader whose experience spans Robotics 🤖, Automotive 🚗, CleanTech 🌿, Medical & Rehabilitation Robotics 🏥, Consumer Electronics 📱, Power & Energy ⚡, and several other cutting-edge domains.

🎧 In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore: 🔹 The journey from engineer to business leader 🔹 Why being a "generalist at heart" can be a powerful advantage in today's technology-driven world 🌍 🔹 Leadership lessons from building teams, scaling businesses, and managing complex projects 🤝 🔹 The growing importance of robotics across industries 📈 🔹 How robotics can enhance safety, productivity, and quality of life ❤️ 🔹 The truth about automation, jobs, and the opportunities of tomorrow 💼 🔹 India's current standing in the global robotics ecosystem 🇮🇳🌏 🔹 Whether we are building world-class technologies locally or still relying on imports 🔧 🔹 The challenges India must overcome to become a robotics powerhouse 🚀 🔹 The exciting convergence of Robotics 🤖, AI 🧠, Machine Learning 📊, and Semiconductors 💡 🔹 Skills and career pathways for students and young professionals entering DeepTech 🎓 🔹 A fascinating look into what the next 10 years could hold for robotics and India 🔮✨ 💬 Whether you're a student, engineer, founder, policymaker, researcher, or simply passionate about technology, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most transformative fields shaping our future. 🌟 The future isn't just being imagined—it's being engineered. 🎙️ Tune in and join us for this inspiring conversation! In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area. Guest : Dr. Miithun Manalikandy Dr. Miithun Manalikandy is a transformational technology and business leader with over two decades of experience. Dr. Manalikandy has successfully scaled global engineering organizations, built high-impact teams, and driven innovation-led growth across deeptech, Industry 4.0, AI/ML, robotics, automotive safety, smart grids, and advanced engineering R&D. Currently serving as the former COO of Genrobotics and India Engineering Leader at Hubbell Incorporated, he has previously held leadership roles at Aptiv, Tata Elxsi, The MathWorks, and Mahindra Satyam. A Ph.D. in Power Systems Engineering & Computational Intelligence, he holds 5 patents, has authored 33+ technical publications, and is a recipient of the prestigious IEEE R10 APAC Award. Beyond industry, he has played influential roles in IEEE Robotics & Automation, Smart Grid initiatives, and national technology policy frameworks, making him one of India’s notable voices in scalable deeptech and innovation-led industrial transformation. Watch the episode here :

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Breakthrough Yttrium Aluminum Borate Nanomaterial for Ultra-Low Power LEDs | AKU Patna Innovation

 

In this special session, we explore a groundbreaking Indian innovation in nanotechnology and LED research developed at Aryabhatta Knowledge University (AKU) , Patna.

The AKU Researchers Team led by Dr. Bibhuti Bikramaditya has invented a new functional nanomaterial based on Yttrium Aluminum Borate for next-generation LED applications. This invention was developed as part of Dr. Bibhuti’s Ph.D research under the guidance of Dr. Rakesh Kumar Singh and co-guidance of Prof. R. K. Verma. Key Highlights of this Nanomaterial: ✔ Non-lanthanide material with high coloring effect ✔ Rare earth element abundantly available in India ✔ Potential reduction in dependency on Chinese raw materials for LED manufacturing ✔ Suitable for both UV LEDs and visible LEDs ✔ Ultra-low operating voltage from 1.3V to 1.7V ✔ Potential reduction in sparkling effects harmful to the human retina Guests's Bio: Dr. Bibhuti Bikramaditya: Dr. Bibhuti Vikramaditya is an accomplished Product and R&D leader with over 23 years of experience spanning nanotechnology, VLSI (FPGA/ASIC), embedded systems, and hardware product development. A graduated incubatee of IIT Patna, he is the Director of SmartWay Electronics Pvt. Ltd., having secured funding from IIT Patna, the Department of Industry, Government of Bihar, and the Startup India Seed Fund. His research contributions include nano-electronics and nanomaterials for advanced LED devices, with a provisional patent filed and hands-on expertise across advanced characterization and nanotechnology tools. Beyond industry, Dr. Vikramaditya is the Founder of BiharBrains Development Society, a non-profit focused on building a research and innovation culture in Bihar, and the driving force behind the annual Bihar Science Conference, an international forum hosted with leading universities. He also serves as the Managing Editor of Manthan, an international peer-reviewed journal, reflecting his commitment to advancing scientific research, capacity building, and deep-tech ecosystem development in Eastern India. Dr. Rakesh Kumar Singh: Dr. Rakesh Kumar Singh is the head of the Department of School of Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Aryabhatta Knowledge University, Patna. He started his teaching and research career at the age of about 25 year in year 2004 (after passing M.Sc-Physics in the year 2003) as Lecture of Physics, Patna Women’s College, Patna University. He guided/completed 14 Ph.D. theses, 45 M.Tech Research project theses and 18 UG Research project under College with Potential for excellence status, accorded by UGC & Basic Scientific Research (NAAC-A grade scheme) till Aug. 2021. He has published/ written research article about more than 100 in peer reviewed journals. Prof. R. K. Verma: Prof Ranjit K. Verma, FRSC(London) is the Founder Vice Chancellor of Munger University and a former Pro Vice Chancellor of Patna University, Patna. He superannuated as Professor of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry from Magadh University and has been authoring popular science articles for media since 70’s. An author for chemistry textual materials and encyclopaedia chapter, he is also a former Hony. Editor of the Journal of Indian Chemical Society and, an Associate Editor of the Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry(Springer). His works on synthesis of smart nanoparticles and those on thermooxidative decomposition of edible oils are well acclaimed. Presently, he is also President of Indian Council of Chemists and General Secretary of Ind. Sci. Cong. Assoc. Nishant Kumar : Nishant Kumar is a Researcher and Technical Assistant at the Centre for Nanoscience & Nanotechnology, Aryabhatta Knowledge University, Patna, He earned his M.Tech in Nanoscience & Nanotechnology as a university topper from Aryabhatta Knowledge University and holds a B.Tech in Electrical & Electronics Engineering. He has strong expertise in nanomaterial synthesis and advanced characterization techniques including XRD, SEM, FTIR, DLS, and TGA-DTA, and has contributed to more than 40 PG and Ph.D. research theses. His research interests span nanomaterials, nanoelectronics, nanomedicine, sensors, and environmental applications. He has authored over 50 SCI/Scopus-indexed publications, with an h-index of 19 and nearly 950 citations, and holds a granted patent on YAB-based nanomaterials for LED applications. Nishant Kumar is also an IEEE member and has delivered invited talks and lectures on nanotechnology, nano-biotechnology, advanced materials, and emerging nanodevice applications at academic institutions and conferences. In addition, he has served as an Assistant Professor in an engineering college and actively contributes as a peer reviewer, researcher, and conference participant in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology.

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🎙️Robotics, DeepTech & India's Journey Towards a Smarter Future 🇮🇳 | TSP| Dr. Miithun Manalikandy

 

What does it take to evolve from a technologist into a business leader? 🌱

How will robotics transform the way we live, work, heal, manufacture, and build the future? 🤔

And most importantly, can India become a global leader in robotics and deep technology? 🚀

In our latest episode of The Semiconductor Podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Miithun Manalikandy an accomplished technology and business leader whose experience spans Robotics 🤖, Automotive 🚗, CleanTech 🌿, Medical & Rehabilitation Robotics 🏥, Consumer Electronics 📱, Power & Energy ⚡, and several other cutting-edge domains.

🎧 In this thought-provoking conversation, we explore:

🔹 The journey from engineer to business leader
🔹 Why being a "generalist at heart" can be a powerful advantage in today's technology-driven world 🌍
🔹 Leadership lessons from building teams, scaling businesses, and managing complex projects 🤝
🔹 The growing importance of robotics across industries 📈
🔹 How robotics can enhance safety, productivity, and quality of life ❤️
🔹 The truth about automation, jobs, and the opportunities of tomorrow 💼
🔹 India's current standing in the global robotics ecosystem 🇮🇳🌏
🔹 Whether we are building world-class technologies locally or still relying on imports 🔧
🔹 The challenges India must overcome to become a robotics powerhouse 🚀
🔹 The exciting convergence of Robotics 🤖, AI 🧠, Machine Learning 📊, and Semiconductors 💡
🔹 Skills and career pathways for students and young professionals entering DeepTech 🎓
🔹 A fascinating look into what the next 10 years could hold for robotics and India 🔮✨

💬 Whether you're a student, engineer, founder, policymaker, researcher, or simply passionate about technology, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most transformative fields shaping our future.

🌟 The future isn't just being imagined—it's being engineered.

🎙️ Tune in and join us for this inspiring conversation!

In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area.

Guest : Dr. Miithun Manalikandy

Dr. Miithun Manalikandy is a transformational technology and business leader with over two decades of experience. Dr. Manalikandy has successfully scaled global engineering organizations, built high-impact teams, and driven innovation-led growth across deeptech, Industry 4.0, AI/ML, robotics, automotive safety, smart grids, and advanced engineering R&D. Currently serving as the former COO of Genrobotics and India Engineering Leader at Hubbell Incorporated, he has previously held leadership roles at Aptiv, Tata Elxsi, The MathWorks, and Mahindra Satyam. A Ph.D. in Power Systems Engineering & Computational Intelligence, he holds 5 patents, has authored 33+ technical publications, and is a recipient of the prestigious IEEE R10 APAC Award. Beyond industry, he has played influential roles in IEEE Robotics & Automation, Smart Grid initiatives, and national technology policy frameworks, making him one of India’s notable voices in scalable deeptech and innovation-led industrial transformation.

Watch the episode here :

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🎙️GaN Explained: Alex Lidow on Future of Power Electronics & Semiconductors | TSP | Dr. Alex Lidow

We are thrilled to host Alex Lidow 🔥 — a true pioneer in power electronics and the visionary behind Efficient Power Conversion (EPC)!

From leading International Rectifier to driving the GaN revolution ⚡, this episode is packed with deep insights on the future of semiconductors 🚀 🎙️ What’s inside this power-packed episode? ⚡ The journey from silicon to GaN breakthrough 👩‍💻👨‍💻 What makes GaN fundamentally different for young engineers ✨ The gap between 📚 textbook learning vs 🏭 real-world challenges 🏆 Where GaN wins and where silicon still holds strong 💪 🤔 GaN vs Silicon: Replacement or long-term coexistence? 🚧 Early challenges in building EPC 🚗 Applications driving GaN today: EVs | 🖥️ Data Centers | 📱 Consumer Tech 🌍 The evolving global GaN ecosystem 👀 Beyond GaN: Future technologies to watch ⚠️ Are we underestimating the next big disruption? 💡 Career advice for the next generation of engineers 🎯 Who should watch this? 👉 Semiconductor professionals 🧠 👉 Students & young engineers 🎓 👉 Deep-tech founders & builders 🚀 🎧 Tune in now & stay ahead of the curve! In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area. Guest : Alex Lidow Alex Lidow is CEO and co-founder of Efficient Power Conversion Corporation (EPC). Since 1977 Dr. Lidow has been dedicated to making power conversion more efficient upon the belief that this will reduce the harm to our environment from energy production and consumption. 1979_IRF_original33In order to pursue this mission, in 1977 he joined International Rectifier as an R&D engineer. In 1978 he co-invented the HEXFET power MOSFET, a power transistor that launched the modern power conversion market and displaced the aging bipolar transistor. Royalties from these patents brought in more than $900M over the years, and International Rectifier, prior to being acquired was the largest producer of power MOSFETs in the world. Over the 30 years Dr. Lidow was at IRF, his responsibilities grew. He progressed to the head of R&D, head of manufacturing, head of sales and marketing, and finally CEO for 12 years. Dr. Lidow holds many patents in power semiconductor technology, including basic patents in power MOSFETs as well as in GaN FETs. He has authored numerous publications on related subjects, and recently co-authored the first textbook on GaN transistors, “GaN Transistors for Efficient Power Conversion”, now in its second edition published by John Wiley and Sons. In 2004 he was elected to the Engineering Hall of Fame, and in 2005 IRF, under Dr. Lidow’s leadership, International Rectifier was named one of the best managed companies in America by Forbes magazine. Dr. Lidow was one of the lead representatives of the Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA) for the trade negotiations that resulted in the U.S.-Japan Trade Accord of 1986 and testified to Congress many times on behalf of the industry. Dr. Lidow earned his Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics in three years from Caltech in 1975, and his PhD in Applied Physics from Stanford in 1977 as a Fannie and John Hertz Foundation Fellow. Since 1998 Dr. Lidow has been a member of the Board of Trustees of the California Institute of Technology, and has been the Chairman of the Compensation and Nominating Committees, and Vice Chair of the Investment Committee. Watch the episode here:

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🎙️From EDA to Agentic AI : CEO Kriyam.ai on India’s AI Readiness |(TSP) | Guest - Suvajit Sengupta

What does it really take to go from EDA to building cutting-edge AI products? 🤔

In this episode, we sit down with the Suvajit Sengupta, CEO of Kriyam.ai and Founder of GEOGO Techsolutions to explore a powerful journey across semiconductors, SaaS, and now Agentic AI 🚀 💡 What makes this even more exciting? He is on a mission to automate complex business and official documents, helping organizations save human time ⏳, reduce errors, and significantly boost productivity ⚡ 💡 We dive into: ✨ “Automating the un-automatable” — what it really means in the real world 🌍 India’s actual position in the global AI race 🎤 Key insights from AI Summit & discussions 🧠 How engineers can practically enter AI today ⚡ Building strong product teams that scale and adapt This episode blends deep tech with real-world application—perfect for anyone building in AI, semiconductors, or product engineering 🙌 In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area. Guest : Suvajit Sengupta Suvajit Sengupta , a seasoned technology leader and entrepreneur, he is currently the CEO of Kriyam.ai, where he is tackling one of the most complex challenges in enterprise automation—making business documents machine-readable and context-aware using Agentic AI. With over two decades of experience spanning VLSI/EDA, geospatial systems, and enterprise SaaS, he has consistently driven digital transformation by building high-performing product and engineering teams that adapt and scale with changing needs. As the Founder of GEOGO Techsolutions, he has led the development of innovative software solutions across industries including BFSI, manufacturing, and smart cities. Known for his strong belief in people and continuous learning, he is passionate about mentoring teams, shaping product strategy, and solving real-world customer problems through technology.

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What is Testability Analysys ? Ep-2

In this article , we break down Testability Analysis in digital circuits in a simple and practical way. Learn how controllability and observability define how easy it is to test internal signals from primary inputs and outputs. We also introduce SCOAP, a widely used method that assigns numerical values to measure testability. The video covers both combinational and sequential aspects, along with how these metrics guide test generation and design improvements. If you're working in VLSI, DFT, or chip design, this episode will help you understand how to identify and improve poorly testable areas in your design.

Testability is a relative measure of the effort or cost required to test a logic circuit.

- Assumes only primary inputs (PIs) can be directly controlled

- Assumes only primary outputs (POs) can be directly observed

Testability reflects:

- Effort to control internal signals from PIs  and effort to observe internal signals at POs

Testability Analysis:

- Testability analysis assigns numerical values to each signal in a circuit. It helps during test generation, such as choosing the easiest signal to control. It identifies poorly testable areas for improvement using test point insertion.

Why it matters:

Guides test generation decisions. Identifies poorly testable areas in a design. Supports testability enhancement (e.g., test point insertion). Enables early detection of testability issues during design stages. SCOAP is a popular topology-based testability analysis method.

Since the 1970s, engineers have developed ways to check how easy a circuit is to test. SCOAP was the first popular method to measure testability using circuit structure

SCOAP introduced two key ideas:

1. Controllability → How hard it is to set a signal to 0 or 1

2.  Observability → How hard it is to see a signal at the output

SCOAP metrics are later used to decide where to add test points.  Traditional testability works at the gate level, using circuit connections. 

Two common approaches:

- Topology / Probability based → Fast but sometimes inaccurate

- Simulation based → More accurate but slower

Accuracy reduces when signals split and rejoin (reconvergent fanout). Today’s chips need testability checks at RTL level, not just gate level.

What is SCOAP?

- SCOAP (Sandia Controllability & Observability Analysis Program) is a method to measure how easy or hard it is to test a signal inside a digital circuit.

SCOAP Calculates 6 Values for Each Signal

1. Combinational (No Clock, Single Snapshot)

    - CC0(s) → Ease of setting signal s to 0

    - CC1(s) → Ease of setting signal s to 1

    - CO(s) → Ease of observing s at the output

2. Sequential (With Clock Cycles)

   - SC0(s) → Clock cycles needed to set s to 0

   - SC1(s) → Clock cycles needed to set s to 1

   - SO(s) → Clock cycles needed to observe s

Boundary Rules (Starting Points) :

1. Primary Input :

   - CC0 = CC1 = 1 (easy to control)

   - SC0 = SC1 = 0

2. Primary Output :

   - CO = SO = 0 (easy to observe)

=> Lower value = easier to test

Controllability values: 1 → ∞

Observability values: 0 → ∞

CC – Combinational Controllability

CO – Combinational Observability

SC – Sequestioal Controllability

SO – Sequestioal Observability

Controllability & Observability Calculation

1. Combinational Controllability (CC):

Measures the difficulty of setting a signal to 0 (CC0) or 1 (CC1) through primary inputs. Computed from Primary Inputs (PI) → Primary Outputs (PO). Calculated level-by-level (breadth-first) through the combinational logic.

2. Combinational Observability (CO) :

Measures how difficult it is to observe a signal’s effect at a primary output. Computed from Primary Outputs (PO) → Primary Inputs (PI). Calculated level-by-level, ensuring downstream observability is known first.

3. Sequential Controllability (SC) :

Measures the difficulty of controlling flip-flop states through primary inputs across clock cycles. Extends combinational controllability by considering state transitions in sequential circuits. Includes the cost of clock cycles required to set flip-flop values.

4. Sequential Observability (SO) :

Measures the difficulty of observing flip-flop values at primary outputs over time. Extends combinational observability by considering state propagation through clock cycles

Controllability → PI → PO

Observability → PO → PI

Controllability Measures:

The figure shows a circuit consists of an AND gate and a positive-edge-triggered D-FF.

1. Controllability measures of Signal d :

- To control signal d to 0, either input a or b must be set to 0

- To control d to 1, both inputs a and b must be set to 1

CC0(d) = min{CC0(a),CC0(b)}+1

SC0(d) = min{SC0(a),SC0(b)}+1

CC1(d) = CC1(a) + CC1(b) + 1

2. Controllability measures of Signal q to 0 :

- To control the data output q of the D flip-flop to 0 ,

(i) data input d and the reset signal r can be set to 0 while applying a rising clock edge (a 0-to-1transition) to CK

(ii) r can be set to 1 while holding CK to 0. Alternatively, this can be accomplished by setting r to 1 while holding CK at 0

CC0(q) = min{CC0(d)+CC0(CK)+CC1(CK)+CC0(r),CC1(r)+CC0(CK)}

SC0(q) = min{SC0(d)+SC0(CK)+SC1(CK)+SC0(r)+1, SC1(r)+SC0(CK)}

3. Controllability measures of signal q to 1:

- To measure the data input d to 1 , reset signal r need to be set to o 0 while applying a rising clock edge to the CK

CC1(q) = CC1(d)+CC0(CK)+CC1(CK)+CC0(r)

SC1(q) = SC1(d)+SC0(CK)+SC1(CK)+SC0(r)+1

Observability Calculation:

1. Combinational and sequential observability measures of d:

- Signal  d can be observed at q by holding the r at 0 , applying a rising clock edge to CK

CO(d) = CO(q) + CC0(CK) + CC1(CK)+ CC0(r)

SO(d) = SO(q) + SC0(CK) + SC1(CK)+ SC0(r) +1

Combinational and sequential observability measures of r:

- Signal r can be observed by first setting q to 1 and then holding CK at the inactive state 0

CO(r) = CO(q)+CC1(q)+CC0(CK)

SO(r) = SO(q)+SC1(q)+SC0(CK)

2. Observability measures of CK at q:

- set q to 1, r to 0, and d to 0 and apply a rising clock edge at CK

- set both q and r to 0, set d to 1, and apply a rising clock edge at CK

CO(CK) = CO(q)+CC0(CK)+CC1(CK)+CC0(r)+min{CC0(d)+CC1(q),CC1(d)+CC0(q)}

SO(CK)= SO(q)+SC0(CK)+SC1(CK)+SC0(r)+min{SC0(d)+SC1(q),SC1(d+SC0(q)}+1

3. Observability measures for both inputs a and b :

To observe an input of the AND gate at d requires setting the other input to 1

CO(a) = CO(d)+CC1(b)+1

SO(a) = SO(d)+SC1(b)

CO(b) = CO(d)+CC1(a)+1

SO(b) = SO(d)+SC1(a)

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🎙️India’s Semiconductor Moment: IP Strategy, Leadership & Execution Insights | Guest - Shivraj Thakare | TSP

 

We’re excited to bring you an insightful conversation with Shivraj Thakare, a seasoned semiconductor leader with a remarkable journey across world-class IP engineering at Intel and most recently leading semiconductor business execution at HCLTech.

This episode goes beyond titles—it dives into how great semiconductor systems, teams, and leaders are actually built. 🔍 What you’ll hear in this episode: 🚀 Shivraj’s career journey and key takeaways 🧠 What excites him most in today’s semiconductor ecosystem ⚙️ What separates a world-class IP from a functional one 📐 Early IP planning to balance PPA, schedule, and risk 🤝 Make-vs-Buy decisions at scale 👥 Leading large analog & layout teams across geographies 🏭 Product vs services mindset—execution and accountability 🌱 India Semiconductor Mission 2.0 and deep capability creation 🛠️ Equipment & materials—where India should be strategic 🎓 Skill stacks for IP + manufacturing excellence 🌏 India’s differentiated strengths in the global value chain 📍 The renewed Look East focus and emerging tech hubs 💾 Budget 2026, data centers, and impact on semiconductors ✨ Advice for aspiring engineers and future leaders In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area. Guest : Shivraj Thakare Shivraj Thakare is a seasoned semiconductor leader with over two decades of experience across circuit design, IP engineering, and large-scale organizational leadership. Most recently, he served as AVP and General Manager – Semiconductor at HCLTech, where he led semiconductor business growth, IP and product services execution, and contributed to the broader ecosystem. Prior to that, he spent nearly 20 years at Intel, culminating as Senior Director of IP Engineering, where he steered large analog design organizations and owned end-to-end delivery of high-performance IPs including DDR, HBM, display, and high-speed serial/parallel interfaces, from specification through product launch. His expertise spans IP portfolio and roadmap management, make-vs-buy decisions, SoC alignment, and PPA optimization, combined with deep experience in team building, execution, and external foundry engagement. Watch the episode here :

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🎙️Photonics, Quantum Security & Silicon Photonics | Dr. Prometheus Dasmahapatra | TSP

We had an amazing technical discussion on Photonics in our latest episode of The Semiconductor Podcast featuring Dr. Prometheus Dasmahapatra, CTO at amPICQ and a global expert in photonics and semiconductor technologies 🌐🔬

Dr. Dasmahapatra’s journey spans some of the world’s leading research and industry organizations including ASML, imec, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland, and Universitat Politècnica de València 🏭🏫. He is also the co-founder of iPronics Programmable Photonics, bringing deep insight into both cutting-edge research and deep-tech entrepreneurship 💡📡.

In this episode we have explored:

💡 What photonics is and why it is shaping the future of computing
⚡ The rise of silicon photonics and photonic integrated circuits
🔐🧠 Quantum-safe communication and technologies like Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
🚀📊 The journey from research labs to deep-tech startups
🇮🇳🌏 Global photonics ecosystems and opportunities for India

As AI infrastructure 🤖, quantum technologies ⚛️, and secure communication 🔐 continue to evolve, photonics is emerging as a critical pillar of next-generation semiconductor innovation.

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💻🧑‍🏫Running eSim Anywhere: Docker-Based Setup for Mac, Linux, Windows | TSW | Presenter: Sumanto Kar

 Running eSim Anywhere with Docker (Mac, Linux & Windows)

🎤 Guest & Presenter: Sumanto Kar Docker installation :

🔹 What is eSim? ⚙️ A free and open-source Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tool (formerly Oscad/FreeEDA) 🧩 Integrated simulation environment built on tools like KiCad, Ngspice, GHDL, Verilator, and OpenModelica 🧪 Supports SkyWater SKY130 PDK for open-source chip design 📜 Released under the GNU GPL license 🔹 Focus of This Webinar 💻 In this session, we will demonstrate how Docker can simplify the installation and execution of eSim across multiple operating systems including MacOS, Linux, and Windows. 📦 Instead of complex toolchain setups, participants will learn how to run a ready-to-use eSim environment using containerization. 🔹 Why Attend? 🚀 Learn how Docker enables portable EDA environments across different operating systems ⚡ Avoid complicated installation steps and dependency issues 🖥️ Run eSim seamlessly on Mac, Linux, and Windows 📦 Understand how containerized EDA workflows support reproducible research and teaching 🎓 Ideal for students, educators, researchers, and hardware startups 🛠️ What Will Be Covered? 🐳 Introduction to Docker for EDA workflows ⚙️ Setting up a Docker-based eSim environment 💻 Running eSim on MacOS, Linux, and Windows using containers 📦 Managing simulation environments without dependency conflicts 🧪 Demonstration of running eSim simulations from a Docker container 📡 Best practices for portable semiconductor design environments 👥 Who Should Attend? 🎓 UG/PG Electronics Engineering Students (BSc/BTech/MSc/MTech/MS) 👨‍🏫 Faculty Members & Researchers 🔬 VLSI & Embedded Systems Enthusiasts 🧑‍🔧 Lab Instructors & Technical Staff 💡 Anyone interested in open-source semiconductor design tools

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🎙️India Semiconductor Push: Semicon 2.0, ISM 2.0 & Union Budget 2026 Explained | V. K. Pandurengan

We have just dropped a special episode of The Semiconductor Podcast (TSP) featuring Venkatesh Kumar Pandurengan, General Manager of PTW Semiconductor India Private Limited , to discuss what Union Budget 2026 means for India’s semiconductor journey 🇮🇳

In this conversation, we explore the next phase of India’s semiconductor push — Semicon 2.0 and ISM 2.0 and what it could mean for manufacturing, ecosystem development, and talent. 💡 Key topics we covered: 📊 What Union Budget 2026 signals for semiconductor manufacturing in India 🔄 The transition toward Semicon 2.0 and ISM 2.0 🏭 The future of Fab, ATMP, and OSAT manufacturing in India 🔗 Building a strong semiconductor ecosystem and supply chain 👩‍🔬👨‍💻 The skills and talent pool needed to support this growth 🚀 Opportunities for MSMEs, startups, and ecosystem players 🌏 The potential for Eastern India to contribute to the semiconductor ecosystem This episode brings together insights on policy, manufacturing, skills, and ecosystem development — essential for anyone following India’s semiconductor ambitions. In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area. Guest : Venkatesh Kumar Pandurengan Venkatesh Kumar Pandurengan is a seasoned practice leader with over 20 years of experience in semiconductor equipment engineering, operations, and engineering R&D services, spanning fabs, ATMP, and OSAT manufacturing environments. His expertise covers a wide range of process modules including ATMP/OSAT operations, CVD, PVD, ALD, Etch, Metrology, CMP, wafer handling, and quality systems. Venkatesh has worked across leading ATMP and OSAT ecosystems with organizations such as HCL Technologies (Sankalp Semiconductors), Infineon Singapore, and ASE Singapore, as well as global fabs including IM Flash Singapore, Micron Singapore, Intel, GlobalFoundries, Tower Semiconductors, Semiconductor Laboratory (SCL) Mohali, and META. He also brings deep engagement with major semiconductor equipment OEMs such as Applied Materials, Lam Research, Tokyo Electron (TEL), KLA, Agilent, and Teradyne (including J750 platforms), along with their sub-assembly units, making him a well-rounded leader with end-to-end insight into the semiconductor manufacturing value chain.

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🎙️ From the DotCom Boom to the AI Boom — Modern Data Center Skills Explained| TSP| Guest - Verlaine J Muhungu

 

Once upon a time, networking meant configuring switches manually and managing small server racks. Today, AI runs on massive hyperscale data centers powered by automation, observability, and intelligent networking.

In this episode of The Semiconductor Podcast (TSP), we shift our mindset across generations of technology: 🔹 How server room networking evolved from DotCom era to AI-era data centers 🔹 Why data centers — not just AI models — are the real foundation of AI 🤖 🔹 How AI workloads changed networking architectures (Leaf–Spine, Disaggregation) 🔹 Why automation is no longer optional ⚙️ 🔹 How CCNA & MCSE skills are evolving beyond traditional roles 🔹 What modern engineers must learn to stay relevant in AI-first infrastructure 💡 Inspired by real industry insights into modern networking, automation, and AI-driven operations. 👨‍💻 If you are an engineer, student, or tech enthusiast asking: 👉 “How should my career evolve in the AI era?” This episode gives you the roadmap. 🎧 Watch now and rethink networking for the AI age. In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area.

Guest : Verlaine J Muhungu

Verlaine J Muhungu is a Network Engineer and Technical Writer with over a decade of experience spanning routing & switching, network automation, APIs, and secure multi-vendor architectures. Specializing in modern, AI-driven networking, he works at the intersection of software, automation, observability, and traditional infrastructure—leveraging Python, pyATS, Cisco APIs (Meraki, Webex, Duo), ThousandEyes, and agentic AI systems to design scalable, automation-first networks. Currently serving as Technology Advisor at NexLink and Founder of DoDo Botics, he also contributes globally as a technology writer with Informa TechTarget, and publishes educational content through platforms such as HackerNoon and the Cisco Learning Network. A future Cisco Press author and DevNet advocate, Verlaine champions continuous learning, believing that AI doesn’t replace network engineers—it amplifies those who keep building, automating, and shipping. Watch the episode here :

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🎙️From Concept to Silicon: 38 Years of VLSI, SoC & Leadership | TSP | Guest - Dr Veena Chakravarthi

Today on The Semiconductor Podcast, we’re honored to feature Dr. Veena Chakravarthi,Director of Research & Engineering , LeadSoc Technologies Pvt Ltd and a semiconductor industry veteran with 38+ years of experience across VLSI, SoC architecture, research, startups, and academia.

In this powerful and deeply insightful episode, Dr. Veena Chakravarthi shares: 🚀 Her journey into VLSI & SoC design when India’s semiconductor ecosystem was still nascent 🧭 How semiconductor leadership has evolved over the past two decades 🧠 Real-world challenges in SoC architecture, low-power design, and IP-led innovation 🏗️ Building and scaling high-performance Offshore Development Centers (ODCs) 🎓 Bridging industry and academia as a professor, mentor, and researcher 📘 The story behind her widely referenced book A Practical Approach to VLSI SoC Design 🌸 A special early Women’s Day conversation on navigating deep tech as a woman leader, retaining women talent, and inspiring the next generation 🌷 In this podcast series, discussion on VLSI and its related fields is presented, focusing on recent developments and advancements in the industry. Topics such as the latest trends and innovations in semiconductor technology are explored, offering insights into the evolving landscape. Career guidance is shared, providing practical advice for navigating the field, along with success stories that highlight the journeys of professionals who have made their mark in VLSI. Whether for students, professionals, or those interested in the subject, valuable knowledge is offered to help stay informed and succeed in this dynamic area. Guest : Dr. Veena Chakravarthi Dr. Veena Chakravarthi is a semiconductor industry veteran with over 38 years of experience spanning VLSI and SoC architecture, design methodology, low-power systems, and end-to-end silicon realization. She currently serves as Director (Research & Engineering) at LeadSoc Technologies, where she drives research-led innovation, leads offshore development center (ODC) setup and scaling for global clients, and focuses on customer engagement, IP development, and SoC architecture definition. Her distinguished career includes senior leadership roles at Synopsys, co-founding and serving as CTO of a medtech startup with multiple US and India patents, and heading research at a leading engineering institute, where she mentored PhD scholars and actively bridged academia–industry gaps. A respected educator and published author of A Practical Approach to VLSI SoC Design (2nd edition), Dr. Chakravarthi is widely admired for her deep technical expertise, strategic leadership, and passion for nurturing next-generation semiconductor talent

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