Semiconductor Packaging News - Exclusive: IMAPS International Symposium on Microelectronics

Exclusing Article

September 17, 2012

IMAPS International Symposium on Microelectronics

Ken Cavallaro, Business Manager, Semiconductor Packaging News

We attended the 45th International Symposium on Microelectronics last week in San Diego, California. The conference delivered a wide range of technical programs and exhibits for the microelectronics industry. The event included over 100 exhibitors who showcased their latest technology while meeting with prospective engineers on the exhibit floor.

The conference keynote address was held on Tuesday with a presentation by Mr. Matt Grob, Executive Vice President and CTO of Qualcomm. His presentation was titled "The path to a 1,000x increase in capacity for mobile network". The presentation focused on the opportunities, challenges and momentum with advancing technologies in mobile. Matt spoke about the tremendous increase for mobile data/video and the challenges for the mobile providers to meet demand. He discussed a range of technologies including the use of Wi-Fi to supplement the 3G & 4G wireless spectrum.

Matt use many illustrations to show how the goal of reaching 1,000 times capacity will involve multiple solutions including new licensed LTE, an "inside-out" wireless spectrum and the implementation of "small cells" to reach targeted areas. The ability to use your home and office networks to supplement wireless spectrum is possible and the technology is not far away. After the presentation, we joined Matt for a luncheon and talked about the growth of "on-demand" video like Netflix which he claims is responsible for up to 30% of wireless capacity. He also confirmed Qualcomm is having a tough time with delivery of their latest technology as their "fabless" company has to rely on subcontractors to build their chip technology.

There were over 20 technical sessions during the conference ranging in topics from 2.5/3D Packaging, Materials, Advanced Technologies and Global Perspective. We visited a few of these sessions and they were well attended, causing some exhibitors to wonder why the show floor had few visitors. The exhibit hall picked-up during the extended lunch breaks and provided attendees a chance to learn more about equipment, materials and test. Most companies we spoke with said business was okay, but flat compared to last year, which was not good enough for some who forecast 10% growth.

We congratulate iMAPS for a successful conference.

Ken Cavallaro , Business Manager
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