Part 3: A Turning Point

Electronics are approaching a turning point in their development: We can already foresee a time in their largely evolutionary development when electronics will reach the limits as far as any further structural miniaturization is concerned. One way around this could be to introduce new innovative ideas from the field of basic research; another could be to take an integrated approach with regard to mastering technology, system knowledge and design capability.The simultaneous effects of factors such as the shortening of cycle times and rising R&D costs, or even the penetration of the semiconductor market by other countries, increase the risk for all competing companies. Users demand a cheap, flexible and comprehensive product range which has to be continually renewed and adapted to meet requirements. As a result, there is an increasing trend towards international alliances. In Europe, there is currently MEDEA+, which has a significant German input, and PIDEA for construction and joining technology; in the USA, SEMATECH, also an industry-supported organization, is currently the most important body for setting standards. Co-operation with European partners is becoming increasingly close, as SEMATECH’s efforts to set up a European branch make clear. This is evidence that, on an international level, the leading role in microelectronics has shifted from Japan to the USA and to some extent to Europe.
Next: Software Writing Expertise