Electronics are now so integral to everyday life that it’s hard to imagine the modern world coping without the microchip. Yet the fact that the world’s largest semiconductor manufacturer Intel is celebrating only its 40th anniversary this year, emphasises how quickly this technology has become dominant.
It is now a $1.2 trillion industry, the largest markets being for computers and office equipment (36%), portable and consumer electronics (22%) and communications technology (15%). It is an industry defined by technological advance and changes in fashion.
It has been called a ‘high clockspeed’ industry, with short development lead times, small production runs and volatile markets. The speed of change shows no sign of slowing and electronic technology plays an increasing role in a wide range of products.
Already the cost of the electronics in a new car makes up around a quarter of the car’s value, with some predicting that this will be nearer half the value within just 3 years.
... to continue reading you must be subscribed
