BTQ Technologies Acquires Computing-in-Memory IP from Cimtech Technology

BTQ Technologies Corp. announced the acquisition of advanced IP from Cimtech Technology Co., Ltd., innovator in memory technology and computing-in-memory (CIM) solutions.

This strategic acquisition positions BTQ at the forefront of computing innovation, enhancing its capabilities in post-quantum cryptography and quantum-secure communication technologies.

Cimtech’s cutting-edge CIM technology, developed in collaboration with National Tsing Hua University and supported by its R&D office in Hsinchu, Taiwan, complements BTQ’s mission to deliver next-gen secure and energy-efficient computing solutions. The integration of this IP is a strategic move to enhance BTQ’s capabilities in addressing the growing challenges of post-quantum cryptography and quantum-ready systems.

What is Computing-in-Memory (CIM)?
Computing-in-Memory (CIM) is a next-gen architecture designed to overcome the limitations of traditional computing systems. By integrating computation and memory storage into a unified framework, CIM reduces data movement, improving speed and energy efficiency. This approach is particularly valuable for applications in ML, cryptography, and quantum computing, where the demand for processing power and efficiency continues to grow exponentially.

Significance of Cimtech’s IP
Cimtech Technology has developed a state-of-the-art 32×64 CIM node using TSMC’s 28nm HPC process. This IP includes critical design assets such as Verilog behavior models, timing libraries, layout (GDS), and other advanced components essential for implementing CIM technology. Notably, Cimtech’s IP enables high-speed, low-power computation, making it a cornerstone for creating cutting-edge cryptographic accelerators and secure communication hardware.

Cimtech Technology Co. is a leader in memory technology, specializing in computing-in-memory silicon IP. The company collaborates closely with National Tsing Hua University (Taiwan), leveraging cutting-edge research and academic expertise to develop groundbreaking innovations. Its research and development office is located in the Center of Innovative Incubator at Tsing Hua University in Hsinchu, Taiwan, placing Cimtech at the heart of technological advancements in the CIM domain.

Cimtech’s innovation is driven by the expertise of Jalen Hsu, the company’s Design Team Leader. Jalen is a seasoned expert in analog IC design, semiconductor processes, and system-on-chip (SoC) project management. Over his distinguished career, he has held leadership roles at industry giants like TSMC and Rambus, where he spearheaded pioneering projects in memory circuits, silicon-based device physics, and computing architectures. Mr. Hsu’s work has earned international recognition through multiple IEEE publications and patents, including advancements in ESD protection and CMOS image sensors. Under his guidance, Cimtech has developed cutting-edge CIM IP that is poised to transform the landscape of secure computing.

Enhancing Number Theoretic Transform (NTT) capabilities
A key area where this acquisition will have a profound impact is in the implementation of the Number Theoretic Transform (NTT). NTT is fundamental in accelerating complex mathematical computations required for applications like zero-knowledge proofs (ZK), homomorphic encryption (HE), and post-quantum cryptography (PQC). By leveraging Cimtech’s CIM IP, BTQ aims to develop specialized NTT accelerators that significantly enhance computational efficiency and security.

“The demand for NTT computation in future computing devices, driven by applications like ZK, HE, and PQC, is growing rapidly,” said Jalen Hsu, design team leader, Cimtech Technology Co. “By combining BTQ’s advanced algorithms with Cimtech’s circuit design expertise and state-of-the-art CIM IP, we aim to accelerate the adoption of NTT accelerators and drive technological advancements across industries.”

Strategic benefits:

• Enhanced Efficiency: CIM technology significantly reduces energy consumption while increasing computational speed, a critical requirement for post-quantum cryptographic applications.
• Future-Ready Solutions: The integration of this IP strengthens BTQ’s capacity to deliver hardware solutions optimized for quantum-resistant security.
• Advanced Toolkits: The acquired assets, including proprietary design kits and behavioral models, will accelerate BTQ’s development pipeline for quantum-secure systems.
• Innovation Leadership: Cimtech’s CIM IP solidifies BTQ’s position as a leader in advancing the state of secure computing technologies.

“Acquiring Cimtech’s innovative CIM technology aligns perfectly with our commitment to building the future of quantum-secure systems,” said Nicolas Roussy Newton, COO, BTQ Technologies. “This acquisition empowers BTQ to address the emerging challenges of post-quantum cryptography with unparalleled efficiency and security.”