Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University (NTU) has selected Agilent Technologies Inc. as the supplier of RF test equipment for its Virtus IC design center of excellence. The move is designed to build a long-term relationship focusing on the growing education market in Asia.

Virtus aims to be a world-class design house, developing key technologies required to design integrated circuits and systems for use in consumer electronics, medical equipment and clean energy generation. The equipment, including signal generators, a network analyzer, and integrated circuit characterization and analysis software, will be used for research projects approaching the terahertz range, starting with WiGig applications and higher-frequency 325 GHz projects.

“Agilent has enabled us to bring in new technologies and know-how to accelerate the development of NTU’s research and design capabilities,” said Professor Yeo Kiat Seng, Founding Director of Virtus and head of division of circuits and systems at NTU’s School of Electrical & Electronic Engineering. “In addition, the excellent support and research engagement with Agilent has helped to expose our faculty, researchers and students to the realities and opportunities in the new knowledge-based economy.”

Lawrence Liu, the Sales Manager in Agilent’s Electronic Measurement Group, South Asia Pacific region, added, “Education and research is an important growth market for Singapore. Agilent recognizes the talent of NTU’s researchers and students and is proud to be able to contribute to the school’s future success.”