Vanguard Automation and ETRI partner to advance scalable photonic integration in Korea
Vanguard Automation has announced the installation of its Sonata 1000 3D lithography system at the Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI) in Korea, marking a significant step toward advancing scalable photonic integration and packaging.
The Sonata 1000 platform enables automated fabrication of photonic wire bonds (PWB) and custom 3D micro-optical elements, eliminating the need for high-precision mechanical alignment and additional mode-matching optics. Compatible with industry-standard simulation tools, the system supports both low-volume prototyping and high-volume production, accelerating the transition from research to commercialization.
By leveraging Vanguard’s 3D lithography technology, ETRI researchers and partners aim to enhance the reliability, precision, and scalability of photonic subassemblies across sectors such as communications, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence.
“This installation represents a key milestone in strengthening Korea’s photonics ecosystem,” said a Vanguard spokesperson. “The combination of Vanguard’s automated integration tools and ETRI’s research capabilities will help drive innovation and commercialization in next-generation photonic technologies.”
The partnership underscores a growing global push toward scalable and automated PIC packaging, enabling more efficient, flexible, and cost-effective photonic manufacturing.
