Consumers Hungry for Connectivity Drive Strong Semiconductor Growth

Innovative new devices in an increasingly mobile and well-networked world will help to drive semiconductor growth in the coming years, although traditional drivers like PCs and cell phones still dominate.

By Aaron Hand

May 27, 2010 – As the semiconductor industry digs out of one of its worst downcycles in its history, there are several driving forces behind predictions for double-digit growth in 2010. But one key factor that's behind not only an expected two-year growth cycle but also a mitigated drop in last year's revenue is continued innovation.

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Energy Efficiency: Semiconductors' 21st Century Challenge

TOP STORY... April 13, 2009

Worldwide energy use is growing much faster than the fossil-fuel supply can match. The U.S. Department of Energy projects that by 2030, worldwide energy use will increase by ~40% from today. Four authors from the Semiconductor Industry Association detail answers, which include renewable energy, a smart grid, and more-efficient systems. "Working together with system and service providers, the semiconductor industry can have a significant positive impact in addressing the global energy challenge," they said in our April cover story.
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ISMI Readies 450 mm Equipment Metrics

TOP STORY... April 7, 2009

The ISMI 450 mm program is moving from wafer handling tests to developing guidelines for early 450 mm wafer process equipment. The consortium posted equipment performance metrics (EPMs) to its website for the major tool types needed for a demonstration line. "Test wafer equipment development and demonstrations are on track starting by the middle of 2009," said Tom Jefferson, 450 mm program manager.
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