Steve Carr

CONNECTIVITY: Microchip Technology Inc. acquires #VSI to expand automotive networking portfolio The acquisition aims to strenghten #Microchip's automotive networking portfolio, integrating VSI's ASA Motion Link technology with Microchip's existing #Ethernet and #PCIe solutions. The transaction details have not been disclosed. “This acquisition brings VSI’s knowledgeable team, their market traction and ASA Motion Link technologies and products to Microchip’s expansive automotive #networking portfolio to better serve the #ADAS megatrend we are focused on,” said Mitchel Obolsky, senior vice president of Microchip’s automotive products, networking and #data center business units. Read more here: https://lnkd.in/e4uaU9Rc #Automotive #Interiors #AutomotiveInteriors #AutomotiveIndustry #AutomotiveDesign #AutomotiveInteriorsDesign #Design #Engineering #Manufacturing #Technology #Transportation #AutoInExpo #AutoIntExpoNovi #GACS

1

Silicon Catalyst.UK, the UK arm of the startup incubator dedicated to fostering semiconductor solutions, hosted an event to celebrate semiconductor startups and to discuss the industry. The UK has a history of innovation and can potentially double the number of semiconductor unicorns in the next decade with continued investment and partnerships. Advancements in technology and innovation are emerging from the UK, positioning it as a leader in the industry. It is through programmes like ChipStart UK that the UK can become a powerhouse once again. 👇 Read more below 👇 #StartupsMagazine #Startups #Entrepreneur #SemiconductorStartups

10

Earlier this year, our Business Development Manager, Tony Hawkins, sat down with Electronic Sourcing magazine to explore the complexities of the UK PCB supply chain. From market challenges to innovative strategies, Tony delves into the factors shaping the industry and how Daleba is navigating these dynamic times. Check out the conversation in the Electronic Sourcing magazine on pages 22-24! https://bit.ly/3T0wKKf #PCB #SupplyChain #Electronics #Innovation #ElectronicSourcingMagazine

20

CSconnected welcomes today’s announcement by Saqib Bhatti MP MBE that a UK National #Semiconductor Institute will be established to coordinate semiconductor related activities across the UK. The announcement was made on the first anniversary of the launch of a UK semiconductor strategy and follows recommendations in a report commissioned by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology following industry engagement over the last year. CSconnected looks forward to a close working relationship with the National Semiconductor Institute which supports the cluster’s vision to make the UK more competitive and sovereign across the tech sector in applications ranging from handsets to data centres, mobility and net-zero applications, healthcare, robotics and AI. https://lnkd.in/eBdhUjyD

152

Council appoints 'Change Champion' to help strengthen digital culture Read more: 👇👇 https://buff.ly/4dP2zyC Noosa Council TechnologyOne Devon Wilson Loretta Libke #newtechnology #wireless #worldofengineering #device #smarttech #electronic #smartgadget #technology #electronics #techy #technews #Electrical #tech #GovTech_Review

3

As part of Sigma Technology Group's ongoing market watch, the latest Sigma Insight report highlights key developments in the semiconductor industry, please contact your account manager or DM us for full document: => Memory chip price setback? Delivery and Price Tracking => Passive component manufacturers released price increase signals => Global semiconductor sales jump 21 per cent year-on-year to record high in August => Global semiconductor industry expands investment in 300mm fab equipment 🔔 Stay ahead of the curve - Sigma Insight continues to monitor these trends closely. Connect with us for tailored solutions and insights: [email protected] #Memory #PassiveComponent #Semiconductor #AI #TechTrends #MarketWatch

1

Dive into the characteristics of capacitors and their distinctive benefits. Explore their basic functionality, diverse types, and selection criteria, and discover their pivotal role in the electronics industry 👇 https://lnkd.in/ea8nrkJ8

2

Amphenol Corporation to Acquire Mobile Networks Businesses from CommScope. READ: https://lnkd.in/eYAR7d25 Wallingford, CT – July 18, 2024 – Amphenol Corporation (NYSE: APH), a leading global provider of advanced technology interconnect, antenna, and sensor solutions, today announced a definitive agreement to acquire the Mobile Networks businesses from CommScope (NASDAQ: COMM), a global leader in network connectivity solutions. This strategic acquisition underscores Amphenol's commitment to expanding its footprint in the fast-growing mobile communications market. The Mobile Networks businesses, known for their cutting-edge solutions in network infrastructure, provide critical components for the deployment of advanced 5G networks. This acquisition will enable Amphenol to enhance its product offerings and deliver comprehensive solutions to customers across the telecommunications sector. R. Adam Norwitt, President and CEO of Amphenol, commented, "We are excited to welcome the talented team from CommScope’s Mobile Networks businesses to the Amphenol family. This acquisition aligns with our strategy of providing industry-leading connectivity solutions to our customers and expanding our capabilities in the mobile networks arena. Together, we will be well-positioned to meet the growing demands of the 5G revolution." The transaction, expected to close by the end of 2024, is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Upon completion, the integration of CommScope's Mobile Networks businesses will further strengthen Amphenol’s position as a premier supplier in the global telecommunications market. #amphenol #acquisition #commscope #integration #5gnetworks #telecominnovation #networkconnectivity #mobiletechnology #techmergers #manufacturingexcellence #techrecruiting #engineeringjobs #telecomcareers #joinamphenol #innovatewithus #advancedtechnology #telecomengineering #globaltech #connectivitysolutionsm #5grevolution #techcareers #engineeringopportunities

2

PCB Buyers: Expect Metal Pricing Increases Recent rumblings from both manufacturers and their suppliers indicate copper and gold prices are headed up, driven by the rising needs of green energy. And that, unfortunately, means printed circuit boards will soon be affected as well. Several key laminate suppliers have signaled double-digit price increases in the coming months, challenging many PCB manufacturers who are trying to limit how much of the extra cost they pass on to customers. What can a PCB buyer do to stave off these increases? Here are some suggestions: FORECAST: Ask your sales department. Take a hard look at what you plan to buy of which part number and let your PCB vendor know immediately. This will allow them to place an “anticipated order” of material at today’s prices, helping to keep overall pricing in check. Also ask your vendor what you can do differently to cut costs. For example, maybe change your buying habits from once a month to once a quarter with monthly deliveries. FREIGHT: Have a heart-to-heart with your production people. Do you really need that PCB in 4 weeks’ time when your manufacturing operation is consistent in delivering production assemblies in 8-12 weeks, or even greater lead times? Maybe your company can’t wait for sea freight, but what about air-cargo, which is 12-15 days for transit? How about consolidating multiple shipments? With a little extra planning, that freight cost difference may just offset any materials price increases. FUNCTION: Check with your board designers. There is nothing wrong with you as a buyer asking questions about cost adders. Here are some examples: 1. Are we just being “safe” with the product by having all that extra surface copper or extra mil of copper in the hole to dissipate heat? Would a few carefully placed extra via holes do the trick? 2. Do we need 6 layers of copper, or could we redesign this as a 4-layer, thereby saving copper and avoiding tariffs? (25% tariff if coming from China.) FIELDING QUOTES:  This is the best time to reach out to other potential vendors. I am not suggesting jumping immediately to another vendor on pricing but rather keeping your present vendors on their pricing toes. Don’t be hesitant, though, to bring on a new vendor when necessary, and to let your present suppliers know of this. Your actions (or inaction) will determine how much harder your present vendor base will work for you. Rising costs are nothing new to our industry. But as a board buyer armed with knowledge and forethought, you can influence the impact those costs have on the delivered price. Let me know your thoughts! #pcbassembly #pcbdesign #electronicsmanufacturing

2

As the market demand for cheaper memory chips with increased storage capacity rises, chipmakers are on the lookout for cost-per-bit reduction strategies to stay market competitive. Our Cost per Wafer Pass (CpWP) program, which is one piece of our larger spare parts initiative, helps customers achieve low and predictable operating costs. Learn how programs like CpWp keep chipmakers ahead of the curve. https://bit.ly/3QLgo7Q

238

Redditch manufacturer Solid State PLC sees revenues up 29 per cent ⚙️📈 Solid State plc, a Redditch-based component supplier and design-in manufacturer of computing, power, and communications products, has shared record results for the year ended 31 March 2024. The business saw revenues of £163.3 million – up 29 per cent on the year prior – with an open order book of £89.2 million as of 31 May. It’s made ‘significant progress’ towards achieving its 2030 growth strategy, building relationships with Tier 1 security and defence clients and normalising its post-pandemic order book. Solid State also recently secured a $5.1 million IOT contract from a new US franchise line. Continue reading... https://lnkd.in/dFGYJ-RU #manufacturing #engineering #finance #growth #funding #investing #businessnews #businessintelligence

10

Welcome to our sixth instalment of Making Connections, our monthly series that showcases the fun and friendly folk of Amphenol LTD. Today we say “hello” to Suzanne Butcher Suzanne has been with the team for an impressive ten years, and while you might presume that as a Amphenol Controller, her job is all about the numbers... Well, it’s far from it. Read on to learn more. 💼 Suzanne, tell us about your journey into the industry After finishing university with a law degree, I quickly realised that law wasn’t for me. Instead, I found myself in a trainee accountant position, and 3 years later I became a Chartered Accountant which I followed up with an MBA. I spent several years as a Finance Manager in various manufacturing businesses (from diesel pumps to bread) before joining Amphenol in June 2014. 🔌 What does a typical day involve? I don’t think I have a typical day—no two days are the same. But generally, I’ll be keeping an eye on our KPIs, ensuring the business is moving in the right direction in terms of goals and strategy, and addressing challenges. Of course, I do look after the numbers, and I take that part very seriously. But the fun for me is seeing what comes to my door every day. 🌟 Can you share an Amphenol highlight with us? There are so many! We were a much smaller business when I started, so the highlight for me has been the company's growth as well as it’s digital transformation journey. That could be tangible things like a new website or pricing portal, or the warm and fuzzy things like our culture, our drive, and our freedom to try new things that help us move forward. ⛺ What keeps you busy outside of work? I volunteer for The Samaritans, which is very important to me. As well as helping others, it helps me put things into perspective by understanding the problems that people are facing in life. I also have a life-long love of reading, so much so that I have a book review website (linked below). www.suzworld.co.uk ⁉️ And finally, tell us some interesting facts about yourself. I recently stumbled across a book called “100 Best Cathedrals in Europe”, and we’ve recently bought a campervan. As you can imagine, the two go hand-in-hand quite nicely. We’ve already ticked off 30 cathedrals! A heartfelt thank you to Suzanne, a shining example of the brilliant kinds of people that we’re so lucky to have on the Amphenol team. Happy camping! And cathedral-ing. Keep your eyes open for our next Making Connections.

115

8 Comments

Selecting the best material for your semiconductor ensures that the device meets its performance, reliability, efficiency, and cost objectives, tailored to its specific application and market requirements. We're tackling some of the most FAQs when it comes to semiconductor materials: https://hubs.ly/Q02G1rVv0

11

Sondrel launches Outsourced Design Teams service to ensure customers meet their project deadlines Reading UK – 10 June 2024. Sondrel (AIM: SND), a leading provider of ultra-complex chips for leading global technology brands, is offering customers a solution to their shortage of engineers in the form of its Outsourced Design Teams (ODT) service. Engagements can be as simple as one engineer for a few weeks to a complete team of, say, a dozen for many months. Paul Martin, Director of Field Engineering and Customer Technology at Sondrel, explained, “It’s really difficult finding skilled engineers at the moment especially for Design and Verification. A whole chip project could be at risk of falling behind schedule due to a skills shortage that could have severe financial repercussions. You could use an agency and assemble a team but that needs a lot of people and management time as they are an unproven team. We have much simpler option for customers. Sondrel’s Outsourced Design Teams are drawn from our pool of over 100 skilled and experienced engineers that have worked for us for years and, more importantly, worked together in teams so that they can hit the ground running from day one. We hand pick the members of the team so that it exactly meets the customer’s skills requirement and manage them so that expectations are met, milestones are achieved, and all aspects of people management are handled by us so that the customer can focus on the other aspects of the project.   Sondrel’s secure and sophisticated remote working arrangements enables the company to assemble teams that are made up from engineers in any of its design centres around the world to ensure that the most suitable engineers are used irrespective of their geographical location.   “Importantly,” added Martin, “as one of Europe’s leading design and supply companies we are renowned for our digital design capabilities built up over the past twenty years so customers know we always deliver. Effectively they are tapping into the Sondrel design DNA.”   For further information please contact Sondrel at https://lnkd.in/eH3t7Pgf #OutsourcedDesignTeam #OutsourcedEngineers #ChipDesign #UltraComplexChips #CustomChips #verification

16

A Formula for Future Engineering Success By Peter Schneid - VP of Marketing, Harwin As an industry survey by the UK Electronics Skills Foundation (UKESF) underscored, the ability to source sufficiently skilled staff is a key concern for the electronics sector. This is made worse by the fact that the UK has an aging workforce (with many people closing in on retirement) and thus needs significantly increased recruitment just to maintain current capabilities. As noted here, engineering students often lack some of the vital attributes required for them to fulfil their true career potential - and that’s why projects like IMechE Formula Student are of such value… READ MORE https://lnkd.in/ejwTVb6h Ben Green Wendy Jane Preston Andrew McQuilken Mallory Robertson Simon Flatt Jessica Knight Daniel Anglin John Brunt Sam Bennett Ryan Smart Giorgio Potenza Ecurie Aix - Formula Student Team RWTH Aachen e.V. Team Sonnenwagen Aachen PER -Purdue Electric Racing- Imperial Racing Green UniBo Motorsport - Formula SAE Team University of Bologna TUfast Eco Team Purdue Electric Racing Gopher Motorsports Formula SAE Gator Motorsports ARUS Andalucía Racing Team

12

Take a look at our latest article where #XMOS CTO, Henk Muller, explores the future of #embedded #development and the transformative role of open-source tools, with Electronic Specifier Ltd. Click to read: https://lnkd.in/eGRGfye8 #embeddeddesign #embeddedsystems #opensource #systemonchip #socs #riscv #xcore #xcoreai

19