Chips are hidden in washing machines, microwaves and even reservoirs

Article Abstract:

The Year 2000 compliance problem has focused mainly on the semiconductor chips inside computers. The problem will also affect embedded chips which are found in an increasing number of consumer products. Embedded chips, which represent a huge share of the semiconductor market, have become the purview of companies like Texas Instruments, NEC and Motorola as Intel quickly cornered the PC-chip market. The market for these small computers continues to grow as more and more are used in automobiles, VCRs, cameras, washing machines, microwave ovens and even airplanes and dams. Embedded chips are also used in new products which provide Internet access and may replace PCs such as digital set-top boxes, hand-held computers, video games and smart phones. Companies are busy trying to locate all of these 'hidden' computers to make sure they are Y2K-compliant.

Strategy & planning, Product specifications, Management, Product information, Semiconductor device, Electronic components, Year 2000 transition (Computers), Year 2000 transition

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More complex superchips put premium on designs

Article Abstract:

The semiconductor industry is experiencing a surge of new chip companies that make integrated circuits rather than chips, which are used to make superchips. Chip companies are beginning to overlap with their customers, as they are now able to put the components of their products onto a single chip and almost manufacturing the entire product on their own. These companies are working with systems companies so that they can benefit from their expertise. Microprocessor and memory chips will become a part of the superchip, which will result in memory and microprocessor companies competing to control the superchip. It is quite difficult to put both memory and processors on the same chip, because they have a different structure.

IC Memory Chips, Microprocessor, CPUs (Central processing units), Forecasts and trends, Equipment and supplies, Industry trend, Microprocessors, Computer memory, Design and construction

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Rockwell to cut 3,800 jobs and spin off chip unit

Article Abstract:

Rockwell Internationa Corp (Costa Mesa, CA) has announced plans to spin off its semiconductor division, and cut 3,800 jobs, primarily out of its aviation business. The semiconductor division, which was a major supplier of chips for computer modems, had not been doing as well as planned, due to unpredicted plummeting prices and slow sales growth in personal computer modems. The company has decided to stick to stabler markets. Besides its problems with its semiconductor division, it is also experiencing a period of low sales, due to the Asian economic crisis. The company expects earnings per share of continuing businesses of $2.30 for the fiscal year, compared with $2.12 per share last year.

Comment:

Spins off its semiconductor business

Asset sales & divestitures, Company Planning/Goals, Semiconductors & Parts NEC, Rockwell Automation Inc., Article

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