Micro LED technology is emerging as a promising solution for high-speed AI data transmission and SiPh-based optical communication. Dr. David Su, Chief Strategy Officer of Ennostar, has emphasized that traditional copper wiring is inadequate for AI's escalating data requirements.
While primarily known for short-range transmission, Micro LED technology delivers superior energy efficiency and higher data capacity. Ennostar is currently leading collaborative projects to explore these emerging applications.
Su noted that despite most attention centering on display applications, Ennostar's advancements in non-display uses of Micro LED—particularly in optical communication—remain underappreciated.
The company's technology portfolio spans laser light sources, vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSEL), and Micro LED solutions. In the AI era, where energy efficiency is paramount, Micro LED achieves signal transmission using just one-tenth of the energy consumed by traditional copper wiring.
With computing power requirements escalating in the AI era, the demand for greater bandwidth and channel capacity continues to grow.
Traditional lasers are capped at 8 to 16 channels, but Micro LED technology offers a scalable solution, accommodating over 100 channels with the potential to reach 500 as it evolves. Its rapid transmission speed and fast on/off switching capabilities make it ideal for AI-powered optical communication, particularly within SiPh systems, where its efficiency has garnered significant industry interest.
Micro LED particularly shines in short-range transmission, proving crucial for data transfer between CPUs and GPUs. While copper wiring struggles to meet GPU high-speed demands, Micro LED presents a robust solution for transmissions within 10 meters, combining high data capacity with energy efficiency. Ennostar continues to actively collaborate with clients to explore these advanced applications.
VCSEL technology proves more suitable for mid-range transmission, while long-range InP lasers rely on shutters to regulate light flow. Faster shutter speeds enable greater signal transmission, making this indirect drive mechanism ideal for long-distance applications.
Su confirmed that Micro LED technology has now entered the commercialization phase, unlocking significant growth opportunities across various display markets, including public information displays (PID), transparent displays, wearable devices, AR/VR systems, and automotive applications.
Transparent LCDs have historically suffered from performance limitations, but Micro LED's superior brightness substantially enhances display quality. In the competitive AR/VR market—currently dominated by projection-based systems, LCoS, OLED, and Micro LED—Micro LED distinguishes itself through exceptional brightness and resolution, making it a top choice for next-generation displays.
The automotive industry presents compelling prospects for Micro LED technology. Beyond headlights, Micro LEDs can function as signal lights and integrate with sensors for facial recognition, touch control, and advanced sensing functions. Transparent window displays are currently under conceptual development, while head-up displays (HUD) benefit from Micro LED's direct emission and high efficiency, making it an essential component for future vehicle designs.
Su highlighted Micro LED's immense potential across display, automotive, and optical communication sectors, with Ennostar positioning itself as a key component supplier.
However, AI-driven SiPh and optical communication technologies are still in their infancy, requiring full supply chain collaboration for seamless integration. Ennostar distinguishes itself as one of the few photonics companies capable of delivering end-to-end solutions for both signal transmission and reception.
While Taiwan has a limited number of suppliers, market demand for Micro LED technology remains robust. Ennostar continues collaborating with clients to drive technological breakthroughs and expects to achieve significant advancements within the coming years.
