In the semiconductor industry, maintaining the highest quality control standards is paramount. With the industry evolving and the demand for semiconductors surging, product integrity and reliability have become increasingly critical. The open market — known for its speed, variety, and flexibility — is vital in meeting these demands by providing access to a diverse range of suppliers and components. However, this also highlights the necessity for stringent quality control measures.Fusion Worldwide stands at the forefront of this challenge, offering unparalleled quality control processes that set the benchmark for the industry.Read on to learn more about the importance (and the future) of quality control — but you'll need to download our Buyer's Guide to Quality Control to get a better understanding of how Fusion maintains the highest quality standards in electronic component testing and how that can benefit your company.Download the Buyer's Guide to Quality ControlUnderstanding quality control in semiconductor distributionWhy quality control matters:Quality control in semiconductor distribution is essential throughout the supply chain process — especially in the open market, where the risk of counterfeit components is higher. Here's why.Reliability: Quality control ensures components function correctly and consistently.Safety: Quality control prevents potential malfunctions that could lead to safety hazards.Performance: Quality control guarantees components meet the required standards.Reputation: Quality control helps maintain a company's reputation in the market.The semiconductor industry changes quickly — while also enforcing strict policies — and quality drops can harm the product. This means that any deviation from quality standards can significantly affect the immediate product and potentially cause downstream failures in larger systems.Learn more about our vendor qualification and management practices that support these high standards.Our quality control processEvery single part we source undergoes our extensive 100-point inspection process. We use the same system in all our quality control centers to guarantee everything is clear, traceable, and accountable throughout the supply chain.Download the Quality Control Guide for a more detailed view of the six-step process. Step 1: photography & reviewThe first step in our quality control process is to document the condition of each component when we receive it.Step 2: barcode scanning & reviewBarcode scanning provides transparency and traceability, tracking components throughout the supply chain.Step 3: visual inspection Visual inspection is essential to find any immediate physical defects or inconsistencies in critical components.Step 4: lab inspectionLab inspection involves detailed examination and testing of semiconductor components in a controlled lab environment.Step 5: electrical testingElectrical testing involves assessing the electrical characteristics of semiconductor components to meet the required electrical specifications and perform reliably.Step 6: packaging and shipping Proper packaging and shipping are crucial to prevent damage during transit. Fusion Worldwide uses industry-standard methods to package semiconductors securely, ensuring they arrive in perfect condition.What sets Fusion Worldwide's quality assurance standards apartAt Fusion Worldwide, quality is not just a requirement but a commitment. Our rigorous quality control processes guarantee that every component we distribute meets the highest standards of reliability and performance. We are committed to continuously investing in advanced testing facilities and the latest technology. These processes also lead to streamlined operations, contributing to overall cost savings and improved operational efficiency.Comprehensive testing and inspectionOur quality control centers have the latest technology and a skilled inspection team. We follow a 100-point inspection process to verify every component is tested thoroughly. We also carefully document each step so that every item and action is traceable.Global quality control centersWe have several quality control centers around the world, and each one is strategically placed to serve our global customers effectively. Each center follows the same procedures and maintains the highest security and environmental standards, ensuring our quality control is always consistent and reliable.Advanced technology and expertiseOur quality control centers are armed with the latest technology and staffed by experts in their field. This combination detects and addresses even the most minor defects or inconsistencies in semiconductor components. What's next in quality control — industry trends and future outlookAs technology advances, so do the methods and processes for ensuring the highest quality in semiconductor distribution. New technologies and artificial intelligence advancements — specifically, machine learning — are key to enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of quality control processes.The role of AI in quality controlAI is revolutionizing quality control in the semiconductor industry. Companies can use machine learning algorithms to detect defects more accurately and reduce inspection times. AI systems also have the ability to quickly analyze vast amounts of data, finding patterns and anomalies that human inspectors might miss. This leads to more reliable and consistent quality checks.Future outlook: The use of AI-driven quality control is expected to grow, leading to more efficient and accurate inspections. This will enhance quality standards and reduce the likelihood of defects slipping through the cracks.Advancements in testing technologiesNew testing technologies are also making inspections of semiconductor components more detailed and accurate. XRF analysis and advanced microscopy give deeper insights into material composition and defects.Future outlook: Continuous improvement in testing technologies is expected, further raising quality standards in the semiconductor industry. As they become more sophisticated, these technologies will provide even greater precision and reliability in quality control.Bottom line: quality starts with Fusion WorldwideFusion Worldwide's thorough, industry-leading quality control processes are second to none. Our commitment to quality guarantees that our clients receive the best products and experiences, reducing risks and improving performance every step of the way.By choosing Fusion Worldwide, you get a supplier and a partner dedicated to delivering the highest quality standards in semiconductor distribution. Our rigorous quality control processes and state-of-the-art facilities ensure you receive reliable and high-performing components every time.Discover why Fusion Worldwide's quality standards are superior. Learn more about our quality control in semiconductor distribution in our Buyer's Guide.Download the Buyer's Guide to Quality Control

With the rise and widespread application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, apart from the popular autonomous driving systems in the automotive market, a significant number of software-defined automotive systems are also experiencing rapid growth. These software-managed systems create new passenger and driving experiences. Behind these cutting-edge smart solutions, primary concerns about AI revolve around "information security and cybersecurity" protection, thereby catalyzing the rapid adoption of the secure flash memory.Macronix faced an urgent need to meet memory security requirements for automotive and industrial control electronic data, to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability. To address this, they developed the ArmorFlash series of secure flash memory solutions. These solutions include key establishment, encryption, decryption, authentication, and anti-tamper functions. Additionally, a true random number generator is integrated into the memory chips for secure ID or key configurations. ArmorFlash supports various security functions such as identity authentication, crypto key, and secure-boot mechanisms. The ArmorFlash series has received recognition from international autonomous-driving and microcontroller unit (MCU) chip giants, and has earned accolades such as the Taiwan Excellence Award.The ArmorFlash MX78 series fully complies with ISO/SAE 21434 Information Security Standard CertificationThe ISO/SAE 21434 Standard was officially released at the end of August 2021, covering the entire vehicle lifecycle and emphasizing the requirements for cybersecurity risk management. Macronix promptly formed a project team to intensively prepare for the ArmorFlash MX78 series' standard certification, first passing TARA verification activities to assess various scenarios in which threats occur and determine solutions when encountering information security attacks. They also obtained the ISO/SAE 21434 threat analysis and risk assessments (TARA) verification report on June 2022, subsequently achieving full ISO/SAE 21434 Information Security Standard Product Certification in 2024, which marked a significant milestone in cybersecurity design.The enhanced data access performance of ArmorFlash enhances brand customer user experienceDr. Donald Huang, director of product marketing at Macronix, emphasized in an interview that advancements in AI applications, such as AI, edge computing, 5G and autonomous driving, are leading to exponential growth in data volume, thus driving the demand for memory. With AI applications increasingly capable of operating independently on multiple terminal devices and personal electronics, secure flash memory plays a crucial role in enhancing system security.To enhance user experience, the third-generation ArmorFlash MX78 series has been redesigned with a renewed focus on the speed of accessing data. It currently operates more than one hundred times faster than the previous generation of ArmorFlash. This enhancement significantly aids electronic devices in smoothly executing critical security functions during startup, thereby improving overall user operational experience. In an era where speed is paramount across various applications, the access speed of secure memory undoubtedly plays a crucial role in maintaining optimal brand reputation and product quality.Additionally, ArmorFlash's integrated design consolidates all security functions into a single memory chip, meeting critical security certification standards. This contrasts with typical practices whereby chip manufacturers require additional security chips for specific certifications. Furthermore, ArmorFlash uses a standard Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI) that is pin-to-pin compatible with standard NOR Flash SPI or OctaBus interfaces, unlike products using proprietary interfaces. By integrating the standard SPI interface into a single-chip design, ArmorFlash significantly reduces design complexity for engineering teams. This approach not only enhances product performance but also accelerates volume production and time-to-market, providing a competitive edge in seizing valuable market opportunities.ArmorFlash earns favor from leading global automotive OEMs, automotive electronics manufacturers, and industrial control giantsSince 2019, Macronix's first-generation ArmorFlash has been integrated within NVIDIA's Level 2+ to Level 5 autonomous driving systems, including the DRIVE AGX Xavier and AGX Pegasus autonomous vehicle computing platforms. By leveraging robust secure memory capabilities, ArmorFlash has strengthened data security in autonomous systems and enhanced driver safety.The second and third generations of the ArmorFlash MX78 series have now achieved ISO/SAE 21434 standards, putting focus on "cybersecurity" design. This accomplishment has facilitated Macronix's memory products to secure significant partnerships with major international autonomous driving solution providers and automotive MCU chip manufacturers, as well as adoption by leading automotive and automotive electronics manufacturers.Beyond the automotive sector, ArmorFlash chips are also employed in industrial control and embedded application systems, such as Japan's Renesas Electronics RA series of MCUs. By utilizing ArmorFlash chips featuring integrated hardware encryption accelerators, cybersecurity is bolstered, and more secure and dependable network connections across various embedded applications are ensured.In addition to the aforementioned technologies, ArmorFlash also offers a physical unclonable function (PUF), which functions similarly to chip biometrics with a fundamental encoding method. This equips the chip with a chip fingerprint capability, providing memory chips with unique, unpredictable physical characteristics and non-replicable key features. These properties offer high-level encryption and are applied in various information security and confidentiality applications.Huang emphasized that the identification and prevention of potential information security and cybersecurity threats is an ongoing pursuit. Macronix has already obtained automotive information security standard certifications but continues to reinforce efforts at every stage, from product design and development to volume production and market launch. This ongoing effort aims to identify potential threats and security vulnerabilities, establishing a common foundation for cybersecurity risk management. The newly launched ArmorFlash MX78 series of flash memory solutions significantly shortens the time to market for customers' products, meeting the urgent needs for the automotive, industrial control, and embedded application markets. Through ArmorFlash technology, Macronix is in a strong position to expand its international market presence and continue collaborating with global customers to sustain its success.Macronix ArmorFlash MX78 Serie Achieves ISO/SAE 21434 Information Security Standard Product Certification

Mexico: powering the future with electronics, semiconductors, and AIFor decades, the narrative surrounding electronics manufacturing has revolved around giants like China, South Korea, and Taiwan. However, a new contender is emerging in Mexico. Mexico's electronics industry is experiencing a remarkable surge, transforming the nation into a powerhouse for semiconductors, AI applications, and beyond.Despite the exciting prospects, Mexico's electronics industry faces several challenges. Upgrading infrastructure, particularly reliable power grids and advanced cleanroom facilities, is crucial for attracting top-tier chip fabrication companies. Additionally, developing a skilled workforce capable of handling complex AI projects requires ongoing investment in education and training programs.However, the opportunities are vast. The Mexican government's commitment to infrastructure development and education, coupled with potential foreign investment seeking to diversify supply chains, paints a bright future. Mexico's young and tech-savvy population creates a fertile ground for fostering a dynamic AI innovation hub.Mexico: a land of opportunityMexico's electronics industry is a sleeping giant awakening. With its strategic location, skilled workforce, and growing focus on cutting-edge technologies, the nation is poised to become a major player in the global electronics landscape. This presents a wealth of opportunities for companies seeking to tap into new markets and optimize their operations. Mexico's electronics industry has witnessed significant growth in recent years. This can be attributed to several factors:Strategic location: Mexico boasts a prime location bordering the United States, offering proximity to a massive consumer market and simplified logistics for North American companies.Free trade agreements: Trade agreements like USMCA (previously NAFTA) have facilitated the smooth flow of components and finished goods between Mexico, the US, and Canada.Cost-effectiveness: Compared to some Asian counterparts, Mexico offers competitive production costs while maintaining high-quality standards. This makes it an attractive option for companies seeking to optimize their supply chains.Mexico's strategic role in the global semiconductor ecosystemWhile Mexico may not yet be manufacturing the most advanced chips, its role in the global semiconductor ecosystem is crucial. The nation excels in assembly and packaging, the vital final steps before a chip reaches its end user. This "middle ground" position allows Mexico to capitalize on the booming electronics market without requiring massive investments in top-tier fabrication facilities.Mexico's contributions extend beyond hardware; the country is also embracing AI's potential. The government actively supports AI development through R&D grants and collaborations between research institutions, universities, and private companies. This focus on fostering innovation positions Mexico at the forefront of applying AI solutions in various sectors, from optimizing agricultural practices to automating industrial processes.Mexico's geographical advantage is undeniable. Sharing a border with the US, the world's largest consumer electronics market offers unparalleled access and streamlined logistics. But Mexico isn't just about proximity. The nation boasts a highly competitive production cost structure compared to traditional manufacturing hubs. While Mexico doesn't manufacture the most advanced semiconductors, it excels in assembly and packaging. This "middle ground" offers several advantages:Faster time to market: Companies can leverage established Mexican facilities to get products to market quicker than building new fabs from scratch.Cost-effectiveness: Mexico offers competitive labor costs compared to some traditional manufacturing hubs.Proximity to the US market: Quick and efficient movement of components between Mexico and the US streamlines production processes.By leveraging its strengths in assembly and packaging and strong commitment to AI development, Mexico is strategically positioned to play a pivotal role in the global electronics and semiconductor industries.Mexico's electronics industry: major investments signal a bright futureMicron, a leading memory chipmaker, has announced plans to invest billions of dollars in a semiconductor engineering center in Mexico. This significant investment underscores Mexico's potential to move beyond assembly and packaging, positioning itself as a key player in advanced chip fabrication.Similarly, Foxconn, a major electronics manufacturer, is expanding its operations in Mexico. The company is reportedly considering establishing facilities to produce artificial intelligence (AI) hardware, a move that would further solidify Mexico's position as a hub for cutting-edge technology.These concrete developments signal a significant shift in the global electronics landscape. Mexico's rise as a major player presents exciting opportunities for companies looking to diversify their supply chains and tap into a growing market.Unlock Opportunities in Mexico's Booming Electronics Sector with Fusion WorldwideThe future of Mexico's electronics industry is promising, with both challenges and opportunities on the horizon. With strategic investments and continued support, Mexico's thriving electronics sector offers many opportunities for businesses looking to expand. Fusion Worldwide, with our strong presence in Guadalajara, Mexico, is perfectly positioned to help you navigate this dynamic market.Christopher Kolodko, VP of Sales for America, elaborates, "Fusion Worldwide excels in sourcing reliable suppliers, managing complex cross-border logistics, and bridging language barriers. Beyond simple transactions, we provide strategic advice on the Mexican market and emerging technologies."With Fusion Worldwide as your guide, you can unlock the exciting possibilities of the Mexican electronics industry. Our local presence, global network, and industry expertise empower you to seize this dynamic market's opportunities. Contact us to discover how we can work together to build a successful future in Mexico's electronics revolution.Alan ChewStrategic Account DirectorFusion WorldwideTo learn more, visit fusionww.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X.Download Fusion Worldwide's State of the Industry Report Volume 1.About Fusion WorldwideFusion Worldwide is the preeminent open-market distributor of electronic components and products. We source, inspect, test, and deliver a wide range of components to a large and diversified customer base that includes OEMs, CMs, and ODMs across a wide array of verticals. Founded in 2001, Fusion is headquartered in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and maintains offices and quality centers in major manufacturing hubs worldwide.

FuriosaAI Inc. is pleased to announce its collaboration with GUC (Global Unichip Corporation) as a key partner on the secondgen AI accelerator, RNGD (pronounced "Renegade"), the most efficient data center accelerator for high-performance large language and multimodal models.GUC has been crucial in helping FuriosaAI to achieve an aggressive timeline for RNGD. Developing a new AI accelerator – especially one like RNGD, which utilizes advanced technology like HBM3 and a large-scale 653mm2 SoC with 40 billion transistors – is only possible with excellent partners like GUC, which brings deep expertise in designing system-on-chip (SoC) solutions."RNGD offers the unprecedented combination of performance, power efficiency, and programmability for running large language models and multimodal models. GUC's expertise in areas such as SoC design, backend implementation, and silicon interposer (CoWoS) packaging has ensured that the RNGD project stayed on schedule to launch this year," said June Paik, FuriosaAI CEO.Complementing FuriosaAI's cutting-edge technology is GUC's expertise in turnkey semiconductor design services. As a trusted partner, GUC meticulously executed the project starting from spec-in, seamlessly integrating complex HBM memory subsystems, implementing the physical design, designing the package utilizing TSMC's industry leading CoWoS technology, followed by comprehensive testing services and manufacturing logistics management, successfully enabling FuriosaAI RNGD's 1st time success. GUC played a pivotal role in enabling FuriosaAI RNGD's flawless execution, significantly accelerating its time-to-market."We are excited to partner with FuriosaAI to bring their revolutionary AI accelerator to market," said Dr. Sean Tai, president of GUC. "GUC is highly experienced with large-scale chip design. Our turnkey design services provide end-to-end support, enabling FuriosaAI to rapidly scale their innovation and meet the growing demand for AI acceleration solutions. We look forward to further supporting FuriosaAI as they continue to design innovative products for the AI market."Together, FuriosaAI and GUC are poised to drive AI innovation to new heights, empowering organizations worldwide to harness the full potential of artificial intelligence.For more information about FuriosaAI and the RNGD AI accelerator, visit https://furiosa.ai.For inquiries about GUC's turnkey design services, visit https://www.guc-asic.com

SK Hynix Inc. announced today that it has decided to invest about KRW 9.4 trillion in building the first fab and business facilities of the Yongin Semiconductor Cluster after the board resolution on July 26.SK Hynix (or "the company", www.skhynix.com) designs to start construction of the 1st fab to be built in the Yongin cluster in March next year and complete it in May 2027 and has received investment approval from the board of directors before it. The company will make every effort to build the fab to lay the foundation for the company's future growth and respond to the rapidly increasing demand for AI memory semiconductors.The Yongin Cluster, which will be built on a 4.15 million square meter site in Wonsam-myeon, Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, is currently under site preparation and infrastructure construction. SK Hynix has decided to build four state-of-the-art fabs that will produce next-generation semiconductors, and a semiconductor cooperation complex with more than 50 small local companies.After the construction of the 1st fab, the company aims to complete the remaining three fabs sequentially to grow the Yongin Cluster into a "Global AI semiconductor production base."The amount of investment approved this time included various construction costs necessary for the initial operation of the cluster, including auxiliary facilities, business support buildings, and welfare facilities along with the 1st fab. The investment period was planned to be from August 2024 to the end of 2028, considering the design period to prepare for fab construction and the business support building scheduled to be completed in the second half of 2028.The company will produce next-generation DRAMs, including HBM, a representative AI memory, at the 1st fab and prepare for the production of other products in line with market demand at the time of completion.In addition, SK Hynix plans to build a "Mini-fab" within the first phase to help small businesses develop, demonstrate and evaluate technologies. Through the Mini-fab, the company will provide small business partners with an environment similar to the actual production site so that they can improve technological perfection as much as possible."The Yongin Cluster will be the foundation for SK Hynix's mid-to long-term growth and a place for innovation and co-prosperity that we are creating with our partners," said Vice President Kim Young-sik, Head of Manufacturing Technology at SK Hynix. "We want to contribute to revitalizing the national economy by successfully completing the large-scale industrial complex and dramatically enhancing Korea's semiconductor technology and ecosystem competitiveness."

NewPower Worldwide, a global leader in the electronic components distribution industry, is excited to announce the addition of Carlos Da Silva as the new Vice President of Quality, working alongside NewPower's Chief Quality Officer, Barry Lafontaine. Drawing upon more than three decades of profound expertise in quality management and lean methodologies, Carlos is poised to drive the advancement of NewPower's global quality standards, and his addition will certainly continue to strengthen the company's status as one of the world's premier electronics distributors.Carlos is a Certified Manager of Quality and Organizational Excellence by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), nominated US Lead Quality Expert by ANSI/ASQ and Alumni by the Shingo Institute, with a remarkable track record of implementing and sustaining ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and Lean Systems globally. His leadership and technical expertise have earned him international recognition, including substantial contributions to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and presentations at numerous high-profile conferences.Before joining NewPower Worldwide, Carlos held significant roles, including the Director of Global Quality at Axcelis Technologies and Quality Assurance and Lean Manager at Rockwell Automation. He led multicultural teams across the US, Dominican Republic, Korea, Germany, Italy, China, Japan, and Singapore, developed comprehensive training programs, coordinated global quality events, and improved quality management systems. His innovative approach to problem-solving and strategic planning significantly reduced variation and enhanced product quality and availability, proving his ability to drive operational excellence across global platforms."We are thrilled to welcome Carlos to our team," said Barry Lafontaine, Chief Quality Officer of NewPower Worldwide. "His extensive experience and proven ability to drive quality and operational excellence will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our processes and deliver exceptional value to our customers."

For enterprises whose operations span a diverse range of outdoor working environments, rugged IT solutions that combine purpose-built hardware with industry-specific software can play a pivotal role in streamlining key processes, boosting productivity, and aiding digital transformation.Getac Technology Corporation (Getac) has been focusing its research and development on Edge AI solutions that target real-world rugged industry needs. In addition to the recent launch of its S510, the world's first rugged laptop with AI support*, Getac's two main AI platforms, focusing on imaging and speech, have proved popular with manufacturers, public utilities, automotive, defense industries, and public safety organizations for their powerful smart functions that greatly aid operational efficiency.James Hwang, President of Getac Technology Corporation, said that Getac believes in the importance of Edge AI. The company integrates software, hardware and partners' AI ecosystems to provide customized solutions for vertical industries that accelerate the digital transformation process and optimize workflows.Using Intel's latest Core Ultra processor, Getac's recently launched S510 the world's first AI-ready rugged laptop features an Intel AI Boost NPU (Neural Processing Unit), which is dedicated to processing data-heavy AI-based tasks. The CPU (Central Processing Unit) and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) are then free to focus on core tasks, resulting in optimal battery life and improved performance. The S510 also features Microsoft Windows 11 Pro and integrates the latest Windows Copilot AI assistant, which complements the Intel platform and maximizes AI performance.In addition to AI functionalities, the S510 is certified to the US Department of Defence MIL-STD-810H military standard with a dustproof and waterproof rating of IP53 (Ingress Protection), and screen brightness of up to 1,000 nits, making it well suited to professionals working outdoors. Getac also provides design customization services to meet industry-specific needs if required.In terms of AI visual capabilities, Getac supplies solutions that cover two major products: in-car video systems and body-worn cameras. The Getac CA-NF42/VR-X20G3 in-car video system is specifically designed for law enforcement and public safety applications. CA-NF42 is equipped with a dual front 4K UHD lens and supports WDR technology to capture clear images, even in poorly light environments. License plate recognition has also been successfully introduced to the CA-NF42, meaning that even in complex environments it can recognize license plates across multiple lanes simultaneously in as little as 0.5-0.8 seconds. VR-X20G3 uses the latest Intel Core Ultra Processor as an In-car video server, it can support up to six cameras to deliver 360-degree monitoring with no blind spots, both inside and outside the vehicle.Regarding body-worn cameras, Getac's solutions currently utilize the Qualcomm platform, which will soon include the ability to identify suspects through the use of facial recognition technology. Getac's imaging AI platform has completed model training and can be closely integrated with other Getac software and hardware for the deployment of optimal unified solutions. In order to provide value for more customers, this solution will initially target the North American law enforcement market, with plans for horizontal expansion into other fields, such as transportation at a later date.For its AI speech platform, Getac crafted an AI voice solution that can be deployed on terminal devices to improve the efficiency and safety of police, firefighters and paramedics. The core architecture of the audio solution consists of three features. The first is the background noise cancellation technology that can accurately isolate human speech in noisy environments. The second is an Embedded Speech Model that can control software and hardware functions directly through speech commands and connect with other auxiliary systems. The third is a multi-language voice-to-text engine. The engine is currently trained mainly for English and can convert speech into text records in realtime. Users can use the three functional modules above to perform vehicle registration checks, write reports, and perform other administrative tasks through natural speech. Eliminating keyboard or touch screen data entry allows the operator to focus on policing, thus reducing risk while on duty.Hwang said that Getac has been involved in the field of rugged computers for more than 35 years. A combination of technology development experience and market insights, combined with its large investment in R&D (Research and Development) resources, internal integration of group resources, and flexible supply chain, has enabled the company to create solutions for a wide range of end-user scenarios. In the future, Getac will continue to draw on its strengths to respond quickly to ever-changing market demands, listening to customer needs and working closely with ecosystem partners to strengthen its product portfolio even further.By providing customers with reliable, efficient, and tailor-made Edge AI solutions, Getac will help usher all professionals and industries into a smarter, AI-driven future.Getac showcases AI-enabled rugged laptops and audio-visual solutions that help industry customers perform tasks more efficiently in digital transformation applicationsPhoto: Getac Technology Corporation

Generative AI is currently the hottest topic in the high-tech industry. To meet the massive computational power demands brought by generative AI, our clients are exploring various innovative technologies and design concepts, from chip development to system design, and integrating them into their products. Responding to customer needs and helping them complete more complex designs in a shorter time, incorporating AI/ML techniques into design and simulation tools is an inevitable trend and a direction Ansys is committed to.On the other hand, the enormous business opportunities contained in generative AI have not only driven world-class semiconductor giants to accelerate their investments, but also led to the emergence of numerous startups. This thriving design activity makes the entire semiconductor industry look vibrant and dynamic.Empowering Innovation with AIAI is transforming the world. In the semiconductor industry, AI tools are already widely used in chip design exploration and optimization. For example, AI tools are used in the design and optimization of on-chip and off-chip power delivery networks (PDNs). The addition of AI allows designers to create more advanced and complex chip architectures. With the assistance of AI, designers can explore more design possibilities, find better architectures, and speed up the chip design iteration process through more automation, shortening the time to market.Ansys recently launched a new AI-based technology called Ansys SimAI, a physics-agnostic, Software as a Service (SaaS) application that combines the predictive accuracy of Ansys simulation and the speed of generative AI. The new solution allows engineers and designers to predict the performance of their design within minutes, democratizing simulation through intuitive interfaces and processes.The impact of AI on semiconductor design is just beginning. As AI technology continues to advance and become more powerful, we can expect AI to be used in optimizing chip layout, reducing chip size, and increasing density. In chip manufacturing, AI technology will become a crucial tool for improving overall process yields. The emergence of generative AI also alleviates the pressure caused by talent shortages in the semiconductor industry. With the help of large language models (LLMs) and Copilot tools, engineers can make better design decisions, enhancing productivity and efficiency.The operation of Ansys itself has also undergone significant changes due to the advent of generative AI. One of the main values Ansys brings to its customers is assisting them in achieving more complex and advanced designs. Thus, the Ansys team must provide intensive technical support to help customers solve problems encountered during the design process. Until now, customer support has been highly reliant on manpower, but Ansys believes that virtual assistants based on generative AI technology will be the future direction, as they can provide more immediate responses and support, offering an advantage in speed.To this end, Ansys has invested considerable resources and recently officially launched AnsysGPT. If users encounter issues while using Ansys tools, they can ask AnsysGPT at any time and receive nearly instantaneous responses. Ansys will continue to invest more resources to further strengthen AnsysGPT, enabling it to answer user questions more accurately.At the same time, AnsysGPT ensures data security and compliance, since it is trained using new public sources, including product documentation, product and engineering-related training documentation, FAQs, technical marketing materials, and public Ansys Learning Forum discussions. And this is just the beginning. In the future, Ansys will embed virtual assistant features based on generative AI into the products it provides, making the products more intelligent in responding to user needs.Governments Actively Foster the Semiconductor Industry: AI Chips Gain MomentumFrom the perspective of overall industry development, the emergence of generative AI has made the semiconductor industry vibrant and dynamic. To meet the huge computational power demands brought by generative AI, besides GPU companies, many international chip giants are intensively developing new products, trying to get a share of the market. It is also worth mentioning that, against the backdrop of governments worldwide actively fostering their domestic semiconductor industries, many startups have emerged in the AI chip market.Industry support policies and even government investments are key factors driving the AI chip startup boom. Without government resource injection, startups might take a considerable amount of time to become self-sufficient. On the other hand, performance, power consumption, and cost are the three major factors determining the competitiveness of AI chips, all of which rely on advanced process technologies. While governments strategically support new IC design startups, they are also actively investing in semiconductor manufacturing, especially advanced processes. This dual-track policy approach helps build a robust semiconductor industry ecosystem and makes the AI chip industry more prosperous.To further share with Taiwan's high-tech industry how generative AI can assist R&D teams in accelerating design exploration and verification, enabling products to reach the market faster, Ansys will host Simulation World 2024 on August 6 at the Sheraton Hsinchu Hotel. This annual user conference will feature not only experts from Ansys but also leading companies such as Delta Electronics, Google, NVIDIA, MediaTek, Realtek, ASE Group, Global Unichip, and Lite-On. These experts will share their firsthand experiences of using generative AI in advanced process technology, advanced packaging, silicon photonics, smart vehicles, and power electronics applications. Let us join hands and participate in this grand event to jointly explore the potential applications of multiphysics simulation and new technologies in the field of R&D design, pushing the boundaries of technology!2024 Ansys Taiwan Simulation World (event-simulate.com.tw)Padmesh Mandloi, Regional Vice President, Customer Excellence, APAC Ansys

Crypto Quantique, a provider of quantum-driven security for the Internet of Things (IoT), has announced three new partnerships with intellectual property (IP) distributors in the Asia-Pacific region.Crypto Quantique is partnering with Kaviaz Technology for Taiwan, LoMicro for China, and KRM for Japan and Korea.The proliferation of IoT devices poses a growing security threat to critical infrastructure. As a result, there is accelerating demand for devices that are secure-by-design. Crypto Quantique's semiconductor hardware IP, called QDID, provides the highest standard of IoT security and regulatory compliance. Its patented physical unclonable function (PUF) creates unique chip identities and cryptographic keys on demand. These do not need to be stored in memory, where they would be vulnerable to attack, and cannot be counterfeited, copied or hacked, even in a post-quantum era. As a result, QDID provides the secure foundation of a root-of-trust for any IoT device. QDID is compatible with standard CMOS manufacturing processes at nodes from 55 nm down to 12 nm.Dr Shahram Mossayebi, Co-Founder and CEO of Crypto Quantique said, "These alliances mark a significant milestone in our mission to democratise access to scalable, quantum-driven chip security across Asia. These partnerships significantly strengthen our presence in the APAC region and demonstrate our commitment to securing infrastructure and supply chains globally."

Over the last 15 years, cryptocurrency has not only revolutionized finance but also technology. Specifically, crypto has influenced the development of tokenization, encryption, and compatibility. Crypto technology has already been adopted by other industries - gaming and eCommerce to name a few.One industry that has yet to integrate crypto technology fully is the public finance sector. However, financial experts are forecasting that centralized financial institutions will soon adopt crypto tech.As Kane Pepi's Next Crypto to Explode article highlights, crypto is a fast-moving market, with new, high-speed cryptos constantly emerging as potential competition to Bitcoin and Ethereum. Investors buy into up-and-coming coins as they offer high returns - as long as they can keep up with the fast-paced market.The market is so fast that even the public finance sector struggles to keep up with it. However, traditional finance institutions need to adopt crypto tech to stay relevant in the modern world of eCommerce, crypto gaming, and crypto casinos.One aspect of crypto tech that we'll see financial institutions soon using is tokenization. Tokens are used to represent the ownership of an asset. They're recorded on an electronic ledger which makes them easily tradable. These tokens, which can be bought on Initial Coin Offering (ICO) platforms, can represent anything from a share in a company to a set amount of money.Financial institutions will likely adopt this crypto technology through the tokenization of financial assets such as stocks and bonds.We're already seeing signs of tokenization happening in prominent financial institutions. Several mainstream banks have recently experimented with tokenized deposits. This is when the amount deposited to a savings or checking account is tokenized and recorded on a blockchain network. A token that represents your deposited amount provides greater transparency and security - it also means that your assets can be traded instantly.Crypto technology has also already influenced how central banks issue money, as proven by the advent of Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). As less physical money is used, the need to issue digital money becomes vital in keeping economies healthy.CBDCs are currently used as a means of payment, but will soon also provide banking infrastructure. For example, besides representing value and serving as a form of payment, CBDCs can automate clearance and settlement actions themselves, which brings greater efficiency to banking institutions.Eventually, money will be sent and received through a CBDC ledger. This ledger will automate several banking processes, which reduces the bank's need for certain technologies and employees. Already, we're seeing physical bank branches closing at a high rate, with 1,409 US banks closing last year. We'll likely see an increasing amount of year-on-year bank closures as more financial institutions adopt crypto technology.A combination of CBDC technology and tokenization could also increase the seamlessness of cross-border transactions, while also providing additional security.Rather than sending the money itself across borders, digital representations - or tokenized versions - of bank reserves can be sent to financial institutions in different countries. These digital representations are far more easily tradable than fiat currencies.Sending money abroad comes with a variety of obstacles, including currency exchange, fraud prevention, differing time zones, and so on. This normally results in the money taking around one to five days to be processed and sent to the recipient's account.Digital representations of value would not have to go through these obstacles. The value would be universal, and would not have to be exchanged into a different currency.The amount and value of cross-border payments are constantly increasing year-on-year, with value expected to reach $250 trillion by 2027. With an increasing need for seamless international payments, the need for banking institutions to adopt crypto technology becomes more pressing.How cryptocurrency technology can enhance financial services