Market-Intel Newsletter #40
Japan invests $13 billion to revitalise its chip industry
In a strategic move to revive its position in the global semiconductor market, the Japanese government has announced a substantial investment of approximately 2 trillion yen ($13 billion). This funding, aimed at rejuvenating Japan’s chip industry, forms part of a wider strategy to restore the nation’s former prominence in this critical sector, according to Bloomberg . Once a leading provider in the realm of chipmaking tools and materials, Japan has seen its manufacturing edge diminish over recent decades. In response, the government’s latest financial commitment seeks to bolster the sector, including offering subsidies to chipmakers for expanding their capacity. A significant portion of this investment will be channeled into supporting major players in the chip industry. Notably, the Taiwanese chipmaker 台积公司 and the chip foundry venture Rapidus Corporation are expected to benefit from this funding. Rapidus, in particular, has ambitious plans to manufacture cutting-edge chips in Hokkaido, Japan...
Reliability given backseat to costs, says new survey
Achieving reliability is one of the biggest challenges of electronics design and can sometimes be sacrificed to cost reductions, concludes a recent survey by electronics manufacturer, Molex. The survey reported by MachineDesign , encompassing the perspectives of 750 manufacturing design and systems leaders, revealed the intricate balance between achieving product reliability and managing costs in an era of evolving technology and increasing product complexity. Scott Whicker , SVP and president of Transportation Innovative Solutions at 莫仕公司 , emphasised the importance of reliability in product development and manufacturing. He noted, “Reliability is a real ‘rubber meets the road’ topic with far-reaching implications across every facet of product development, manufacturing and ultimately, end-user experience.” Whicker also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), simulations, and advanced analytics in enhancing product reliability. The survey found that engineers often grapple with competing business imperatives. While reliability is crucial, cost considerations often take precedence, with half of the engineers prioritising costs over reliability. Furthermore, factors like...
Scared of AI? Regulations will impact global electronics supply chain
The introduction of new AI regulations in the United States and the European Union is poised to significantly affect the global electronics market, particularly in terms of national security, competition, and consumer privacy. This development is especially relevant for the electronics industry, as these regulations could cause extensive ripples throughout the global market, impacting trade and supply chains, says EPS News. Leading AI chip manufacturer Nvidia is already experiencing the impact of these new export controls. The company may have to cancel billions of dollars in orders to China, affecting Chinese tech companies dependent on 英伟达 ’s AI resources. The situation is exemplified by Nvidia’s L40S AI chip, which has also been affected by the U.S. export ban. This scenario underscores the challenges companies face in navigating complex export regulations, potentially disrupting supply chains and influencing the global electronics market. The U.S. continues to dominate AI research and development, as evidenced by President Joe Biden’s regulatory order addressing various AI-related concerns. This order is a significant step towards harnessing AI’s benefits while mitigating associated risks. It involves various government agencies working together to regulate AI effectively...
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What can save supply chains from future collapse, asks Forbes?
The global supply chain landscape, especially within the electronics industry, has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. Supply chains have come into sharp focus, particularly after disruptions like those experienced in 2020. This newfound awareness has brought to light the balance of supply chains and the pivotal role they play in the manufacturing sector, particularly in the production and distribution of crucial components such as silicon chips. According to this Forbes article , over the past 40-50 years, the globalisation and offshoring of key components and inputs have drastically altered the supply chain paradigm for domestic manufacturers. The dependency on foreign production, especially highlighted by the recent silicon chip shortage, has not only economic implications but also significant geopolitical ramifications. This reliance is evident in the U.S., where about 90% of the global silicon chip supply is produced in Taiwan and China, affecting the availability of numerous electronic devices. The U.S. administration’s efforts to repatriate critical manufacturing sectors, including silicon chips, underscore the strategic importance of these supply chains...
Counterfeit unboxed: CT scan shows real Vs fake AirPods
Black Friday brings the usual warnings about buying fakes. The electronics market is rife with counterfeit products, and AirPods are no exception. A recent examination conducted using CT scans has revealed significant differences between authentic and counterfeit AirPods, a discovery of particular interest to the electronics industry. Counterfeit AirPods may visually mimic Apple’s iconic design, sometimes even bearing almost identical packaging, misleading consumers into believing they are purchasing genuine products. However, a closer look, particularly through CT scans, exposes the stark differences in quality and construction. The study reported here by Lumafield highlights the impressive engineering of the authentic AirPods. Described as a “marvel of miniaturization,” the genuine 苹果 AirPods are noted for their efficient use of space and tightly integrated flexible PCBs. Their internal circuitry is complex, reflecting Apple’s meticulous design and miniaturization efforts. In contrast, the counterfeit versions are significantly less sophisticated. They utilize simpler, off-the-shelf components, often have fewer microphones, and in some cases, lack the...
More design capabilities for Astute Electronics with Solitron Devices distribution agreement?
Astute Electronics teams up with Solitron Devices Inc to distribute their advanced power semiconductors and solutions in Germany, Australia, and New Zealand. Speak to Stewart Burns , Kasey Sweetlove , Astute GmbH , Astute Pty and Jack Worthen #semiconductor #semiconductors #electroniccomponents #electronicsmanufacturing #electronics #spacetech #defencetechnology #aerospace
Global Supplier Quality Manager
11 个月I'm curious mmmmm