“The event and network opportunities arising from same could not occur without the great work being carried out in the background by the combined efforts of Enterprise Ireland and the Irish Embassy”. “The endorsement they provide to Abrel and the continued backing they offer my Irish Business is absolutely fantastic.”

“A special thanks to both Mr. Pat O’ Riordan and Mr. Robert Kiely, from Enterprise Ireland for their endless ongoing support and help in relation to growing my business in the SEAN market and for organising this invitation on behalf of Abrel in Manila Philippines. It was a pleasure for the Abrel team to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with you all”.

“The hospitality shown to Abrel and the on-going assistance being provided by all parties is greatly appreciated and we look forward to developing further new business opportunities in this region”.

“The evening was great opportunity to meet people and yielded great networking connections for Abrel in Manila, the Philippines and further afield.  A big thanks to all for facilitating and organising such a wonderful event, it makes us all extremely proud to be Irish and doing business in this great part of the world of Asia”, says Joe Powell, CEO Abrel.

In conjunction with this event, Joe took the opportunity to visit new and existing customers in this market to outline new and exciting product developments being currently worked at Abrel.

“This kind invitation from the Ambassador of Ireland to Thailand Mr. Pat Bourne and Mrs. Sonali Rajasingham Bourne was greatly appreciated”.

“The event and networking opportunity could not occur without the great work being carried out by Enterprise Ireland and the Irish Embassy in the background, the continued support and assistance they have provided and continue to offer my Irish Business is absolutely fantastic.  A special thanks Mr. Pat O’ Riordan and Mr. Robert Kiely, from Enterprise Ireland for the endless ongoing support they have shown in relation to growing my Irish Business in the SEAN market”.

“It was a pleasure celebrating the St. Patrick’s Day event with you all along with the Minister of state, Mr Charlie McConlogue TD.  It was both a great evening and opportunity to meet people in conjunction with building networking connections for Abrel in Thailand and further afield”.

“A big thanks to all for facilitating, organising and running such a wonderful event, it makes us all extremely honoured to be Irish and doing business in this great part of the world.” says Joe Powell, CEO Abrel.

A special thank you to Ambassador Mr. Pat Bourne and team for their kind words following the event to the Abrel team.  We look forward to continue to work with you in growing our business in the SEAN.

We are looking forward with anticipation to what 2026 brings……

ASEMEP is a networking committee under SEIPI, the association of Semiconductor Electronics Industries in the Philippines.

SEIPI, the leading organization of multinational and Filipino-owned semiconductor and electronics companies in the Philippines has over 380 members, including manufacturing firms, allied and support industries, and the academe. The Philippine semiconductor and electronics industry is a significant driver of the Philippine economy and the largest contributor to the country’s manufacturing sector.

In 2024, the industry accounted for US$ 42.74 billion, or 58.4%, of the country’s total exports and employs over 3 million direct and indirect workers. SEIPI’s vision for the Philippines is to improve its competitiveness as a business environment for semiconductors and electronics technologies in the global market. SEIPI carries out its mission through TRAINS, namely Training, Roadmap/R&D, Advocacies, Information, Networking, and Services.

Abrel’s CEO and owner Joe Powell, has the great honor of appearing as Guest Speaker at this prestigious event, delivering a presentation entitled ‘Semiconductor Burn-in Global Landscape: Transition from Current Technology to Future Burn-in Technology with AI’

Whilst Abrel didn’t take home an award this time, being nominated put us in the company of some of the best companies in Ireland and we are proud to be recognised among such strong talent. We have learned a lot through this experience and have built valuable connections which is a win for us. The response to our work by Asia Matters, Enterprise Ireland and the IDA has been incredibly encouraging……….

We are just getting started.

The categories under which the nominations have been received are:

High Potential – Asia Market Entry

To identify and recognise a high potential start up with a viable product or service which is surpassing its potential, has excellent product differentiation and is demonstrating a commitment to enter markets in Asia and/or the Middle East.

Technology – Exporter of the Year

Ireland has a strong technology global export footprint in many sectors including Aerospace, Advanced Manufacturing, Sports Tech, Education Tech, AgriTech and Digital Tech. This category also includes technology services organisations who have a clear globalisation strategy focussed on the region through building talent hubs and/or acquisition. This award will recognise the achievements of cutting edge Irish companies innovators playing a pivotal and disruptive role in Asia with their cutting-edge services, solutions and exceptional talent

Winners to be announced on Tuesday 2nd December 2025.

More information on these awards can be found on Asia Matters Business Awards 2025 – Asia Matters

“ From small beginnings in 1994 we are very proud of what the company has accomplished. The company is now a global and highly respected supplier to the semiconductor industry. This is due in no small part to the dedicated and loyal team employed by Abrel, some of whom have been with the company since its inception. We wish Joe and his team every success for the future”

About Abrel

Abrel was founded in Limerick, Ireland in 1994 and the company is a leading supplier of reliability solutions to the semiconductor industry, serving markets in Europe, USA and ASEAN. The range of products and services includes Burn-in Boards, Endzone Burn-in System, Bibtest55XL Board Tester, and Socket Test Probes.

Moving Forward

As the new owner, Joe Powell will now be taking over the running of the organisation.  Note it is business as usual.  The job security and prosperity of all our highly skilled and experienced team is secure and safe with this MBO.

Joe says

“I have ambitious plans to continue to grow the business and follow an exciting Six Sigma Roadmap to ensure Abrel remains at the forefront of technology. Key focus areas include delivery time, capacity, quality, and new R&D and these will be at forefront of projects going forward for 2025. Growing the company and expanding our client base and product portfolio is key to achieving our business priorities and compounding Abrel’s future as a leading player in the Semiconductor industry globally. Abrel really appreciates the continued loyalty and business from all its customers across the globe and as the new owner, I am really looking forward to developing a new legacy for Abrel for another 30 years and beyond, with the great staff and team that I have.”

Wishing everyone a healthy & happy new year for 2025.

Best Regards,

Joe Powell | CEO Owner

A Partnership Built on Trust 

Walk into any of our partner facilities in the Philippines, and you’ll see the Endzone at work. It’s more than just a testing system; it’s a testament to relationships built over time. Our partnerships here run deep – twenty years of working in Southeast Asia, and fifteen years working hand-in-hand with our trusted partners Fit-In Trade. When automotive semiconductor manufacturers place repeat orders, it’s not just about the technology – it’s about the trust we’ve earned, test by test, day by day. 

What Makes the Endzone Exceptional 

At the heart of the Endzone’s flexible capacities, is its universal driver platform – the foundation that sets it apart. Unlike conventional burn-in systems that often require manufacturers to work within rigid constraints, the Endzone’s architecture embraces adaptability. Each driver board becomes a versatile testing hub, able to accept different function modules as testing needs evolve. 

Consider the practical implications: when an automotive semiconductor manufacturer needs to switch from standard burn-in testing to more complex I²C or SPI testing protocols, there’s no need for system replacement. The modular design means simply adding the required function modules to the existing platform. This adaptability proves invaluable when testing requirements change – as they often do in semiconductor manufacturing.  

The system’s remarkable temperature range (-60ºC to +250ºC) coupled with both nitrogen and forced air cooling options means manufacturers aren’t limited in their testing scenarios. Whether testing consumer electronics or automotive-grade components with stringent reliability requirements, the Endzone handles the full spectrum of temperature testing needs in a single system. 

Then there’s the intelligent approach to scaling. Start with a smaller qualification system, and as production demands grow, the same platform scales up to meet full production needs. Even more practically, the Endzone can integrate with existing burn-in systems through its upgrade capability – a feature that protects past investments while enabling future capabilities. 

Crafted for Real People 

Every feature of the Endzone comes from listening to the people who use it. Need to run small qualification batches today but scale up for production tomorrow? The Endzone adapts. Working with existing ovens? We’ve made sure the Endzone can enhance what you already have. From the practical choice between nitrogen or forced air cooling, to temperature testing from -60ºC to +250ºC, Endzone really is the definitive, flexible solution that makes it a work-horse for testing on the factory floor. 

The Power of Flexibility 

The universal driver platform isn’t just a technical specification – it’s our way of saying “we understand your work changes.” Whether you’re using a 1:1 driver to BIB ratio for precise control or a 1:3 ratio for higher volume, the system works the way you need it to. Add different modules, adapt to new BIB types – the Endzone grows with your requirements. 

With Abrel’s Endzone BIB the user has access to all of the Endzone capabilities and as it is a larger size than industry norm, it can lead to more devices under test per board and less BIBs required to carry out HTOL; thus leaving more space in the oven for different product testing. 

Making Complex Things Simple 

Behind the Windows-based control system and remote access capabilities stands a simple truth: testing shouldn’t be more complicated than it needs to be. Temperature control, PSU setup, pattern generation – we’ve aimed to make each feature straightforward and reliable. 

Built on Irish Innovation, Delivered Globally 

From our Limerick home, we’ve reached across several oceans! Today, the Endzone serves semiconductor manufacturers worldwide, with a particularly strong presence in the Philippines where it’s approved and installed in six semiconductor facilities. The automotive sector, with its exacting standards, has become a key part of our story, with manufacturers returning to Abrel to spec. bespoke additional systems, which can be integrated with ease. 

A Foundation of Support 

Every module, every capability – from the PSU programmable modules to the FPGA modules, from SPI testing to LIN Bus modules and Voltage Monitoring – comes with the backing of our engineering team. When you work with the Endzone, you’re working with people who understand that behind every test is a team striving for excellence. 

The Future of the Endzone System 

As semiconductor manufacturing evolves, we remain committed to supporting the people who make this industry work. From our roots in Limerick to our partnerships across the globe, we’re proud to play our part in crafting the components that power our world. 

That’s the Endzone story – not just about technology, but about people working together to create something reliable, adaptable, and enduring. 

From Local Startup to Global Pioneer

The early days of Abrel were marked by hard work, determination and good strategic thinking. Without the luxury of email or social media, the founders relied on personal contacts and “feet on the ground” to secure their first international clients. Their initial focus was on Europe’s “Silicon Glen” in Scotland and on the German market, which was buoyant. This international focus from the outset, which was essential in this sector, laid the foundation for Abrel to  become a truly global enterprise. 

“We were an export company from the get-go,” recalls Declan Brosnan, reflecting on those early years. The company’s willingness to follow the semiconductor industry’s geographical shifts proved crucial to its success. As manufacturing moved to South East Asia in the early 2000s, Abrel adapted, establishing a strong presence in the Philippines, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand through strategic partnerships with local distributors. “If we needed to jump on a plane, we jumped on a plane” Declan explained.  

Evolution Through Innovation 

What began as a specialised manufacturer of burn-in boards has evolved into a comprehensive solutions provider. The company’s product portfolio now includes: 

• High-Temperature Operating Life (HTOL) boards 

• Highly Accelerated Stress Test (HAST) boards 

• Pressure-Temperature-Cycling (PTC) boards 

• The market-leading Bibtest55XL board tester 

• Socket test probes 

• The revolutionary Endzone burn-in system 

A significant milestone came in 2007 with the introduction of the Endzone Burn-in System, which has since become an industry standard platform for semiconductor testing across Asia, Europe, and the USA. 

Embracing Automation and Sustainability 

The company’s commitment to innovation extends beyond its products. In 2022-2023, Abrel completed a multi-million euro investment in automation, introducing state-of-the-art equipment including: 

• Advanced Screen Printing technology 

• Pick and Place Robotics 

• Reflow Machines 

• Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) Systems 

• Automatic Stencil and Solder Wave Equipment 

This investment not only enhanced production capabilities but it also aligned with Abrel’s commitment to sustainability, culminating in achieving ISO 14001 certification in 2023. 

Building on Strong Foundations 

As Abrel celebrates its 30th anniversary, the company stands stronger than ever. The recent rebranding in 2023, which introduced the tagline ‘Your Trusted Burn-In Partner’, reflects both its heritage and future aspirations. The company’s core values of flexibility, knowledge, competence, reliability, and innovation continue to drive its success. 

Looking ahead, Abrel is well-positioned to tackle emerging challenges in the semiconductor industry. With the rise of IoT, machine learning, and AI, the company is on its toes and ready to move with the latest advances in tech. 

A Legacy of Partnership 

“We’ve stayed really close to our clients; physically going where they go, listening to their feedback, anticipating what they’re going to need and maintaining key relationships over the long-term,” explains Declan Brosnan. “Being extremely customer focussed is probably an ethos, not a secret!” 

This customer-centric approach has served Abrel well through economic downturns, Brexit, COVID-19, and various global challenges. As the company enters its fourth decade, it continues to demonstrate the same adaptability and forward-thinking that has characterised its first 30 years. 

From its humble beginnings in Limerick to its current position as a global leader in semiconductor testing solutions, Abrel’s journey represents a remarkable Irish success story. As the semiconductor industry continues to evolve, Abrel stands ready to meet new challenges and opportunities, maintaining its position at the forefront of reliability testing innovation. 

Looking to the Future 

With emerging markets in Brazil and Vietnam, new technologies on the horizon, and an ever-evolving semiconductor landscape, Abrel’s 30th anniversary marks not just a celebration of past achievements, but a launching pad for future innovations. The company’s commitment to quality, evidenced by its ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001 certifications, positions it perfectly for continued growth and success in the decades to come. 

Current Industry Dynamics 

The semiconductor industry’s recovery in 2024 is marked by specific technical trends that are reshaping the landscape. 

Memory Market Rebound 

The global memory chip market, which experienced a 31% decline (approximately $40 billion) in 2023 from its 2022 levels of $130 billion, is poised for a significant recovery. This resurgence is particularly notable in DRAM and NAND flash technologies. Our HTOL boards, designed for extended high-temperature testing of these memory components, are seeing increased demand as manufacturers ramp up production and focus on reliability for next-generation chips. 

Advanced Node Manufacturing 

The industry is pushing towards more advanced nodes, with 3nm and 2nm processes gaining traction. This shift presents unique challenges in reliability testing, particularly in areas of electromigration and time-dependent dielectric breakdown (TDDB).  

Fab Utilisation and Capacity 

Fab utilisation rates have fallen from the mid-90% range to below 70% in Q4 2023. Simultaneously, fab capacity grew by 1.3% in Q4 2023, with a similar projection for Q1 2024. This dichotomy between capacity and utilisation presents unique challenges in maintaining consistent quality across varying production volumes.  

It’s worth noting that inventory levels remain particularly high, standing at over $60 billion as of Autumn 2023. This substantial inventory overhang could act as a significant headwind for sales in the first half of 2024, potentially impacting the timing and scale of new investments in the sector. 

AI and High-Performance Computing 

The surge in AI applications is driving demand for high-performance computing chips. These chips often operate at higher temperatures and power densities, necessitating more rigorous reliability testing. Our Endzone burn-in system is being utilised to stress-test these components under extreme conditions, ensuring reliability in AI-focused data centres. 

EU Chips Act: Technical Implications 

The EU Chips Act’s focus on advanced manufacturing presents specific technical challenges and opportunities: 

Open EU Foundries (OEFs) and Integrated Production Facilities (IPFs) 

These “first of a kind” facilities in Europe will require advanced testing methodologies. Our Reliability boards are being tailored to meet the unique requirements of these facilities, particularly for testing chips designed for automotive and space applications, which demand higher reliability standards. 

Design Capabilities 

The initiative to strengthen Europe’s chip design capabilities will likely lead to more complex, custom designs. 

A key component of the EU Chips Act is the new “Chips Fund”, designed to facilitate access to finance for start-ups and SMEs in the semiconductor sector. With a projected overall value of €2 billion, this fund could significantly boost innovation and competitiveness in the European semiconductor ecosystem. We’re keenly watching how this might influence the emergence of new players and technologies in our field. 

The Act also establishes a European Semiconductor Board (ESB) as an overarching advisory body. This board will facilitate coordination between the Commission, Member States, and industry stakeholders.  

US CHIPS and Science Act  

A critical motivator for the US CHIPS Act is the current lack of domestic manufacturing capability for the most advanced logic and memory chips at a commercial scale. This gap in the US semiconductor ecosystem has significant implications for national security and economic competitiveness, driving the urgency of the Act’s implementation. 

The US initiative also brings specific technical focus areas – 

Advanced Packaging 

With $39 billion allocated for manufacturing incentives, we anticipate a surge in advanced packaging technologies like 2.5D and 3D IC integration.  

Research and Development 

The $11 billion investment in R&D is likely to accelerate innovations in materials and device architectures. It is expected that this funding will be spread across large and small companies, as well as startups, with the goal of promoting and fostering innovation and collaboration. 

Moving Forward 

Both the EU and US initiatives emphasise the importance of international partnerships and cooperation in the semiconductor sector. This global perspective aligns well with Abrel’s position as a company serving a worldwide network of customers. We anticipate that these collaborative efforts could lead to new opportunities for cross-border projects and knowledge sharing. 

Interestingly, the EU Chips Act specifically mentions research into PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) alternatives as an area of interest. A workshop on this topic between the EU and Japan is planned for January 2024. At Abrel, we’re closely monitoring developments in this area, as changes in chip manufacturing materials could have significant implications for our testing methodologies and equipment. 

The semiconductor industry is at a technological inflection point, driven by advanced node manufacturing, emerging materials, and new application domains. At Abrel, we’re not just observing these trends but actively adapting our testing solutions to meet the evolving challenges – our focus remains on providing cutting-edge reliability testing that ensures the quality and longevity of semiconductors in this new era of innovation and global investment. 

Our commitment to staying at the forefront of the semiconductor industry is evident through our multifaceted approach to growth and innovation. We have implemented strategic initiatives to secure top-tier talent, recognising that a skilled workforce is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. Through partnerships with academic institutions like the University of Limerick and the Technological University of Shannon, Abrel has established a robust talent pipeline. The Co-Operative Student Placement programme and the GradStart Programme, supported by Enterprise Ireland, provide invaluable opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in project-based engineering roles. 

To complement its focus on human capital, Abrel has made substantial investments in cutting-edge equipment. We’ve recently acquired state-of-the-art machinery, including a Fuzion1-11 pick and place machine from Universal and an EKRA automatic screen printer. These additions significantly enhance Abrel’s production capabilities, allowing for increased capacity, improved accuracy, and the ability to handle more complex board assemblies. The new equipment not only streamlines existing operations but also positions Abrel to accommodate future technological advancements in the industry. 

Abrel’s presence at industry events, such as the 18th Philippine Semiconductor & Electronics Convention and Exhibition (PSECE), demonstrates its commitment to global engagement and market expansion. By showcasing pur diverse product portfolio and newly developed brand identity at these events, Abrel reinforces its position as a trusted burn-in partner and fosters relationships with existing and potential customers worldwide. 

Furthermore, Abrel’s pursuit of certifications, such as the recently acquired ISO 14001 for Environmental Management Systems, underscores our dedication to sustainable and responsible business practices. This certification enhances our appeal to environmentally conscious clients and stakeholders. The company’s focus on sustainability, as evidenced by its investment in energy-efficient systems and waste management, aligns with the industry’s growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices. 

By continually investing in talent, technology, market presence, and certification, our adaptability and forward-thinking approach is clear to see. These strategic initiatives ensure that Abrel remains well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the semiconductor industry, solidifying our position as a leader in reliability testing and burn-in solutions.