Intel patent outlines embedding MicroLEDs directly into CPU package

Intel has published a patent to integrate MicroLEDs directly into a CPU package. Aside from communication functions, Intel lists many possible uses, including using multi-colored lights to light up the wording on a processor. The patent, filed in 2022 but only published earlier this month, describes embedding a MicroLED into the package by using a glass substrate and through-glass vias (TGV), connecting directly to a die for power and signal routing. The patent says the purpose of the LEDs is "either aesthetic components of the electronic device or to indicate certain operations being performed by the electronic device."

As is the case with any patents, the purpose of embedding MicroLEDs into a chip is left open-ended. However, Intel interestingly calls out implementing MicroLEDs into a CPU, specifically, and provides several examples of how the tech might be used. The patent says the processor "may operate the micro LEDs so that the micro LEDs visually indicate that certain functions are being performed by the processor or simply for aesthetic effects."

In one part of the patent, Intel describes the LEDs being used to "light up wording across a central processing unit," suggesting some sort of read-out available directly on the CPU. How that would work on a standard processor with a heatsink atop remains an open question. In addition, the patent explicitly calls out that the LEDs can be different colors depending on the implementation. That could mean something more akin to RGB memory than a diagnostic readout. The patent leaves room for both designs.

You can see the main drawing for the patent above. In the middle is the glass substrate, sandwiched between two layers of package substrate. A semiconductor die is partially embedded within the glass substrate, leaving just the back surface of the die exposed; however, the patent says the die can be fully embedded in other implementations. The LEDs are connected directly to the semiconductor die, or through nanowires, and TGVs deliver power and signal to the semiconductor die through the glass substrate.

Intel says it builds the package with two layers of silicon nitride, which are formed on the package substrate surface and then attached to the glass substrate. Intel has been working through glass substrates for over three years now, as Intel claims it has 10 times better interconnect density than organic substrates.

The main patent drawing only shows a single IC, though the patent notes that's simply shown "for clarity." A finished product implementing this technology "will have an array or arrays of micro LEDs on one or more IC packages." So, given an ambitious-enough design, Intel could implement multiple LED-based functions directly into the processor.

Patents aren't products, and that's always an important reminder. Intel filed this patent over four years ago, and it's just now being published. Whether we actually see MicroLEDs embedded in a processor remains an open question. However, Intel has laid the groundwork to do something like that in the future.

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Jake Roach is the Senior CPU Analyst at Tom’s Hardware, writing reviews, news, and features about the latest consumer and workstation processors.

Just imagine how cool it will be knowing there are some invisible RGBs under there though secretly making you even more L33T while only adding a few watts to the package until they inevitably burn out from being too hot.jmcgaw said:Yep. If there's one thing I enjoy, it is staring at my CPU although it is a real PITA removing the heatsink and wiping off the goo every time I want to see what it is saying...

They give you an extra 69 fpsTiz.io said:Just imagine how cool it will be knowing there are some invisible RGBs under there though secretly making you even more L33T while only adding a few watts to the package until they inevitably burn out from being too hot.

You do realize that CPU doesn't just refer to desktop CPUs right?jmcgaw said:Yep. If there's one thing I enjoy, it is staring at my CPU although it is a real PITA removing the heatsink and wiping off the goo every time I want to see what it is saying...

The pi for example has a CPU that runs fine without any cooling and leds would make some sense on something like that.

There are more CPUs that don't need cooling than there are ones that do need it.

All phone CPUs run mostly without cooling and if they find a way to make the back transparent (and still somewhat heat conductive) having the CPU flash the makers logo in bright LEDs also makes sense.

Even on desktops the chipset often has no cooling on it, another place this could work.

The applications are practically unlimited.

(Doesn't mean this will ever happen, or take off if it happens, just saying that there are reasons for it)

ReplyTerryLaze said:You do realize that CPU doesn't just refer to desktop CPUs right?

The pi for example has a CPU that runs fine without any cooling and leds would make some sense on something like that.

There are more CPUs that don't need cooling than there are ones that do need it.

Even on desktops the chipset often has no cooling on it, another place this could work.

The applications are practically unlimited.

(Doesn't mean this will ever happen, or take off if it happens, just saying that there are reasons for it)

Too many narrow the scope where/hiw this can be used. Expanding this to any IC could have lots of application both from advertizing as well as easy diagnostics. Patents are future capabilities that few can vision the exact usage and many patents are written broadly. Will this ever be produced? Maybe....

Anyone else find the Mercedes and Audi vehicles with the illuminated grille logos to be gaudy? They just look goofy to me. The first thing I thought of was Intel trying to do something similar with this tech -- illuminate their own logo on some sort of passively-cooled CPU.Reply

Given the heatsinks desktop systems use, I could only see this tech appearing as an illuminated ring around the IHS. Personally, I don't want it. Not everything has to light up or change color!

Mainstream desktop no, I said as much myself.salgado18 said:I believe Intel is incapable of making a CPU that can run without cooling and is still useful.

But intel is opening up to anybody and everybody as a FAB and a lot of designs on 14A, and even previous nodes, will run fine without cooling, just not the top end big performers.