IoT’s Potential In Japan


Going to Semicon Japan was a real treat this year. The event was held at a new location, the weather was sunny, and the exhibits/presentations were engaging. During my walks around the exhibit floor I was drawn to the metrology and material characterization tools. Those booths seemed to have the most interesting information to share. Talking with companies like Rigaku provided insight into the ... » read more

Semiconductors Are Key To Better 3D Printing


The 3D printing world is an exciting place to be right now. For do-it-yourselfers with an artistic or engineering bent, 3D printing delivers a whole new toolbox, enabling designs that were not possible before with exciting new materials. These DIYers often will build their own 3D printers from scratch. The RepRap movement was formed with the goal of creating a self-replicating manufacturing mac... » read more

Another Inventory Glut?


For nearly a year, Semico’s IPI index has been indicating that the fundamental demand in the second half of 2014 would be seasonally weak. Back in early 2013, our initial view for 2014 was a 10% market growth. However, as the IPI declined in the second half of 2013 we revised our semiconductor revenue forecast down to 7.3% heeding the warning that was projected by the Semico IPI index. This w... » read more

How Chip Vendors Counter Security Vulnerabilities In The IoT


The objective of the Internet of Things is connectivity and interoperability of many connected devices. There is a large amount of data that is being generated. This data is transmitted from end devices, the “things,” through a network of gateways, routers, smartphones, PCs and other devices up to the cloud into vast databases. Many sources of little data develop into Big Data. Information ... » read more

FinFET Ramp: Changing Market Dynamics?


Rolling out a new semiconductor technology always has its share of challenges, but it seems like the 14nm finFET process node is starting off with more than its share of delays and speculation. This week Intel revealed some of the details for its new microarchitecture, Broadwell, and their first product, the Intel Core M processor, to be manufactured using their second-generation finFET, 14... » read more

Mid-Year Market Review: A Tale Of Two Halves


The month of July brings 110-degree weather to Phoenix and a welcome trip to San Francisco for Semicon West. It also means the year is half over and it’s time to assess mid-year market dynamics. Spirits were high last week at Semicon West. Most equipment vendors made significant revenue gains in the first half of 2014 and expect the second half of the year to be just as good or even bette... » read more

3D Printing: Can You Imagine the Possibilities?


3D printing is being used in many more applications than most people realize. But the most exciting applications for 3D printing are the ones that haven’t even been conceived of yet. It’s exciting to realize we are on the cusp of a manufacturing revolution that affects so many different industries already. If you have been to the movies lately, you’ve likely seen 3D printing in action.... » read more

Ethernet: The Highway For Automotive Electronics?


What happens when technology from the fast paced communication industry makes a move into the traditional automotive industry? Semiconductor marketers and even the automotive industry are talking about revolutionary changes inside and outside the vehicle. What kinds of changes? Ethernet and sensors. There’s a lot of excitement and enthusiasm over the prospect of cars with Ethernet networki... » read more

3D Printing Revolution Ahead


The 3D printing industry has been getting loads of press recently. It has captured the imagination of many, with the possibility of starting a manufacturing revolution. New applications and materials are announced on a (very) frequent basis. ColorFabb will beta test two new filament materials, one based on bronze and the other bamboo, in the coming months. NASA and Tethers Unlimited are deve... » read more

IoT Roadblocks: Speed Bumps Or Major Road Closure?


The Internet of Things promises to be a big volume market and continues to grab headlines as companies race forward to prepare for its highly anticipated exponential growth. Huge market size numbers are being tossed around in every article and presentation. But when will the IoT really make an impact and what will it look like? Are we setting ourselves up for a false start? The technology fo... » read more

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