Intel Foundry Introduces the 18A Process Node

Intel 18A, the most advanced semiconductor process node featuring PowerVia and RibbonFET technologies for superior performance, power efficiency, and chip density in high-performance computing.

May 16, 2025 By TechCept 3 min read
Intel Foundry Introduces the 18A Process Node
In the rapidly advancing world of **high-performance computing**, **Intel Foundry** has unveiled its most groundbreaking innovation yet: **Intel 18A**. Representing *18 angstroms*, this advanced semiconductor process node is the most sophisticated ever designed and manufactured entirely in North America. Intel 18A is more than just a smaller node—it is a bold leap forward in **semiconductor technology**, combining revolutionary components to enhance power efficiency, performance, and chip density. ## What Is Intel 18A? **Intel 18A** is the next-generation process node that integrates industry-first technologies such as **PowerVia** and **RibbonFET**, both of which significantly elevate transistor performance and power delivery. Designed to support the demands of artificial intelligence (AI), mobile, networking, and next-gen computing, Intel 18A is backed by a robust ecosystem of IP, EDA, and design services partners. --- ## PowerVia: Backside Power Delivery Reimagined One of the defining innovations of the Intel 18A process is **PowerVia**, the industry's first **backside power delivery network**. Unlike traditional power routing through the front of the die, PowerVia delivers power from the backside, freeing up valuable space for signal routing. ### PowerVia Benefits: - **Backside routing** separates power and signal layers, reducing congestion. - **10% boost in cell density** for better utilization. - **4% improvement in ISO power performance**. - Uses **nano TSVs (Through-Silicon Vias)** that are **500x smaller** than current TSVs. - Incorporates the **OmniIM capacitor** to stabilize voltage and enhance power reliability. This innovation enables designers to build more compact, efficient chips without sacrificing performance. --- ## RibbonFET: The Next Generation Transistor Architecture Complementing PowerVia is **RibbonFET**, Intel’s advanced **gate-all-around (GAA) transistor** technology. This transistor uses ribbon-shaped channels fully surrounded by a gate, offering better electrostatic control and increased current drive. ### RibbonFET Advantages: - **Faster switching speeds** and higher performance. - **Smaller transistor footprint** improves area efficiency. - **Scalable design** with customizable ribbon widths for optimized power/performance balance. With RibbonFET, Intel introduces a scalable path for future technologies requiring higher computational power and energy efficiency. --- ## Powering the Future of Computing By combining **PowerVia** and **RibbonFET**, **Intel 18A** delivers unmatched performance per watt, density improvements, and design flexibility. These innovations open new possibilities for cutting-edge applications in: - Artificial Intelligence (AI) - Mobile devices - Cloud and edge computing - High-performance networking Intel Foundry’s 18A process represents a massive stride toward solving the most complex challenges in chip design and semiconductor manufacturing. --- ## Conclusion **Intel 18A** is not just another process node—it’s a platform for the future of **advanced computing architectures**. With innovations like **backside power delivery** and **GAA transistors**, Intel is once again leading the way in chip innovation and design. For developers, system architects, and technology leaders, Intel 18A provides the tools needed to build the next wave of intelligent, high-performance systems. **Experience the power of Intel Foundry. Experience the future with Intel 18A.**

Share this article

Comments (0)

Please sign in to join the discussion.

No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!

Loading TechCept...