Centre for Electronics Frontiers

CEF Facilities

The Centre for Electronics Frontiers (CEF) labs in Murchison House are at the forefront of emerging nanotechnology research. They offer state-of-the-art semiconductor characterisation facilities that complement the fabrication facilities of the Scottish Microelectronics Centre (SMC). In particular, the facilities enable a range of emerging nanoelectronics device and systems testing, novel semiconductor films characterisation and bioelectronic interface measurements. The quality of the labs and equipment allow the users to focus on the creation of high-impact research.

These facilities allow expert users across academia and industry to conduct research into a range of disruptive technologies. They enable the development of electronic systems with embedded artificial intelligence that underpin memristive technologies that merge memory with computing power - supporting a new era for advanced computing solutions that are more capable whilst also more energy-efficient and friendly to the environment. The CEF labs also support research in ultra-low power sensors that unlock new possibilities to monitor the world around us, ranging from smart implants and disease detection/monitoring to advanced image and sound processing capabilities that find a wide range of applications across healthcare, mobile assistance, IoT and defence.

Semiconductor Device Testing Lab The semiconductor device testing lab houses several of the centre's probe stations, along with high-end electronics characterisation equipment. The lab is set up to handle full wafers, up to 200 mm, with much of the equipment capable of automated device testing across the wafers. Read more »	Nanoelectronics Testing Lab CEF's materials characterisation capabilities include a top-spec AFM from Park Systems and a benchtop SEM equipped for elemental analysis. The lab also has the facilities to test packaged nanoelectronic components completely. It is equipped with modern soldering and PCB rework tools, validation boards for crossbar arrays, and a suite of electrical test instruments. Read more »
Bioelectronic Interfaces Lab The centre includes a space designated for bioelectronics research activities. This lab is set up for wet experiments, semiconductor device cleaning, and bioelectronic measurements. Available equipment includes two laminar flow cabinets, a confocal microscope and a full stock of general lab supplies. Read more »	RF and Microwave Testing Lab This lab is dedicated to RF and microwave testing. For these applications, specific equipment that does not distort the signal properties is required. To fulfil this capability, the lab is equipped with dedicated network analyzers, high-speed cables, probes, oscilloscopes, and calibration tools. Read more »
Scottish Microelectronics Centre The SMC, based in the School of Engineering at the University of Edinburgh, offers commercial and academic clients access to state-of-the art facilities and in-house expertise in areas such as micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS), semiconductor, and nano fabrication. Read more »

THE UNIVERSITY OF EDINBURGH