STPI to set up characterization lab at IIIT

The state government has already released Rs two crore to STPI as state's contribution in the first phase

To give boost to the Electronic System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM) sector in the state, the Software Technology Parks of India (STPI) will set up a characterisation lab in PPP (public-private partnership) model at International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Bhubaneswar in association with the state government.

“The detailed project report for setting up the lab has been approved by the state government and the Centre. The initial capital investment will be around Rs 8 crore and about Rs 7 crore has been earmarked for upgradation of the facility,” said an STPI official.

The state government has already released Rs 2 crore to STPI as state’s contribution in the first phase.

On completion of the project, the product developing companies can have their chips tested at the lab here and it will be second such facility in the country after Bangalore which is also being developed by STPI in association with the government of Karnataka, the official added.

Due to non-availability of testing facilities in the country, the chip  designers are now testing the chips   in Silicon Valley of the United States of America and Singapore.

“It will also attract investment by designing companies into the state,” sources said.

The request for proposal for selecting a private partner to run and manage the facilities for six years will be floated soon.

Meanwhile, the state IT department has asked the director of IIIT to provide the required infrastructure for setting up the characterization lab inside its premises.

The infrastructure needed includes 5,000 sq ft floor area, anti-static flooring, high ceiling of 14 feet, set of equipment, supporting team for facilitating test, etc. The state IT department has already engaged India Electronics and Semi-Conductor Association (IESA) to prepare a draft ESDM policy and a future road map for Odisha.