The National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (Nectec) is focusing on developing advanced intelligent sensors for local applications.
The move is aimed at fostering agriculture, manufacturing, electronics, semiconductors, medical technology and the emerging terahertz technology in 6G in order to build Thailand's sustainability.
"We drive technology and research for practical applications to support national development in various areas, focusing on three core technologies -- intelligent sensors, networking and communications, and artificial intelligence [AI] and big data," said Chai Wutiwiwatchai, executive director of Nectec.
Nectec has developed intelligent sensor prototypes, which are on trial and have the capability to serve multiple industries in real sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, electronics, semiconductors and medical technology. This will reduce the country's technology imports and build its own local technology industries.
"Sensor technology plays a crucial role in the digital age and is the foundation for developing advanced technologies. It drives innovation, enhances capabilities and competitiveness in industries," Mr Chai said.
Among Nectec's sensor technology products are its advanced medical diagnostic platform.
Combined with mapping techniques and AI-powered cloud-based analysis, the platform can predict and classify medical conditions such as tuberculosis, dengue fever and cancer within 30 minutes.
It supports on-site testing and online data management, and it is currently undergoing clinical trials for tuberculosis screening with Khon Khen University.
Nectec will make this platform cheaper and test it out with many patients while seeking approval for the commercialisation of the platform.
Nectec also has what it calls TeraAnt which is a terahertz transceiver equipped with a photoconductive antenna.
This device is integrated into terahertz spectroscopy systems for studying and analysing material properties in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Its simple manufacturing process enables large-scale production and industrial applications. Its performance is comparable to commercial products on the market.
Its other product is a "TeraBoost" device, a metasurface passive reflector for 5G/6G signal enhancement to boost 5G/6G signal strength.