D2 Technologies, the market leader in embedded IP communications software platforms, announced that chief operating officer Doug Makishima joins other key industry leaders in a debate on the future of WebRTC, an open-source industry initiative supported by Google to enable Real Time Communications via a web browser.Chris Vitek, president of Enterprise Telemetry, moderated the panel, "Separating Hype from Reality - The Impact of WebRTC on Telecom and Enterprise Ecosystems Within the Next Two Years," where Makishima joined by executives representing Cisco, Hookflash and Disruptive Analysis.The inaugural WebRTC Conference and Expo was held at the South San Francisco Conference Center. Architects, enablers and users of Web Real-Time Communication gathered at the conference to learn the latest developments regarding emerging applications for the technology. Google has been an early champion of WebRTC by providing key components of the open source technology and recently added it to the beta version of its Chrome web browser. Some interpret the move as a sign that the company believes the addition of VoIP and Video-over-IP to web browsers is the next big development in telecommunications.About D2 TechnologiesD2 is the recognized leader in VoIP and converged IP communications software for devices used in 4G and next-generation networks that deliver advanced communication services, such as VoIP and video over LTE (VoLTE) and IMS-based Rich Communications Suite (RCS). Manufacturers and service providers rely on D2 software to deliver carrier-grade IP communications across any network (LTE, WiMAX, cellular, WiFi, broadband, PSTN), service (voice, video, IM chat, SMS, presence/status, etc.) and system (carrier, IPPBX, UC, OTT, social network, etc.) for a broad range of fixed and mobile devices. From processing billions of VoIP minutes each month to adding enhanced IP communications for Android, learn how D2 software is converging communications at http://www.d2tech.com or follow the company on Twitter @D2Tech.
As a pioneer in the BIOS industry, Phoenix Technologies has for many decades actively collaborated with hardware makers and silicon and OS vendors to develop optimal mobile computing devices and cloud computing-based server platforms.Product performance is always a crucial factor in the marketability of IT products. In this sense, BIOS is an essential component for any IT product, since it is the vital engine behind improved hardware and software performance. Phoenix SecureCore Technology (Phoenix SCT) 3.0 is an industry-leading UEFI BIOS which turbo-charges IT products with many new features.Phoenix SCT 3.0 is based on UEFI 2.3.1, which includes support for the latest industry standards and specifications, including EDK1117 Patch V7/8, UDK2010 (EDK II), PI 1.2, TCG 1.2, TPM 2.0, SMBIOS 2.7 and ACPI 5.0. The product supports multiple operating systems and is fully compliant with Microsoft Windows 8 certification.UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) BIOS is characterized by its capability to integrate different environments and systems; and Wintel players have fully leveraged this advantage to offer new products each year. In contrast, ARM-based system development utilizes the Board Support Package (BSP), which lacks reusability; and therefore entails more development cycles to meet different product specifications.With the UEFI architecture, any function can be developed with standardized packages and accessed via Phoenix SCT BIOS, such that firmware, drivers or even BIOS application can be launched immediately after powering on the device, i.e., pre-OS boot. This improves the usability of BIOS, said company Vice President of Development Engineering Terry Chen.Excellent development environment with fully modularized designPhoenix SCT 3.0 is a UEFI BIOS product based on the latest specification standards of EDK II and the modular architecture of previous products, while still having backward compatibility with EDK 1117. Silicon suppliers and OEMs/ODMs have to gradually upgrade functional modules to EDK II standards, with completion of the upgrade expected to take several years.The biggest advantage of Phoenix SCT 3.0 is that it allows OEMs/ODMs to freely use modular functional blocks based on EDK1117 or EDK II to seamlessly connect their firmware base to a new-generation of CPUs and thereby accelerate time-to-market."Our UEFI BIOS image can be highly customized to a minimum capacity of hundreds of kilobytes and a maximum capacity of several megabytes," said company Director of Product Marketing Juliet Chen. "Modular architecture enables the client to select a combination of functions based on need. For example, a combination selected for tablets should not occupy too much capacity but should support functions such as fast boot and power management. Without UEFI modular and layered architecture, it would still be necessary to develop a customized firmaware for each new product, which would entail allotting a big R&D effort and slow the time to market." Chen pointed out.Following the launch of Windows 8, Microsoft has begun pushing touch enabled Human Interface Device (HID) architecture standards. For products incorporating Phoenix SCT 3.0 BIOS, only hardware drivers need to be modified to comply with new standards, Chen indicated. This also makes it convenient for hardware makers to provide driver updates.Windows 8 includes automated BIOS upgrades with Windows UEFI Firmware Update (WUFU), which should simplify the firmware update process, as well as avoid RMA burden spent on system malfunction resulted from false updates, Chen indicated. In addition to the Windows 8 update process, Phoenix Technologies provides other secure methods of upgrading the BIOS.Sure Boot and Safe Recovery make hardware more stablePhoenix SCT 3.0 provides automated and stable boot procedures. Since installing incorrect BIOS can disable a system, Phoenix SCT 3.0 has a "Sure Boot" mechanism for failover BIOS recovery.If a boot failure occurs several times in succession, Sure Boot will automatically recover the original prescribed version of BIOS. This allows access to the hardware and avoids risks arising from incorrect upgrades. Sure Boot maintains the hardware in normal operation without being subject to a variety of potential hazards, Juliet Chen pointed out. For this purpose, BIOS redundancy becomes important.Unlike a dual-BIOS model, Phoenix Technologies' Safe Recovery BIOS2 mechanism does not need two flash ROM chips and lets the running and redundant BIOS exist concurrently without mutual interference through a safe separation mechanism. Placing both blocks on a single ROM chip can save on hardware design costs, while reducing power consumption, Chen explained. When the user updates BIOS, they will not affect the backup BIOS until the functioning of the updated version is checked and accepted. Once normal operation is confirmed, the redundant BIOS will be updated to avoid risks, Chen said.Human operating environment based on a graphic interface and touch supportAlong with the growing application of touch-based interfaces, BIOS configuration has been a concern, especially for tablets. "Since tablets are without many peripherals such as mice and keyboards, and instead are based on touch-control operation, functions such as reset or reboot need to rely on a combination of keys. To address this issue, Phoenix Technologies' BIOS is equipped with touch-control functions to be consistent with the new user experience paradigm," Terry Chen noted.With text-based control of BIOS likely to come across as unfriendly and inconvenient for users, Phoenix SCT 3.0 features a Graphical User Interface (GUI) BIOS Setup, which allows users to easily adjust the BIOS configuration without a keyboard or mouse."Phoenix SCT 3.0 features the layout tributes to Windows 8 user interface with the extention to BIOS Application," Juliet Chen said. "Phoenix Technologies' BIOS product offers a unified interface for developing UEFI Shell-architecture App plug-ins and the company is the first to achieve the seamless boot experience of a BIOS Setup GUI with a Windows 8 touch enabled environment," Juliet Chen stated.In addition to the new graphical interface, Phoenix SCT 3.0 adds Touch Hotzone Support, a touch-control function to replace hot keys such as F1 at the four corners and the center of the screen. This is an enhancement of quick access to boot option on a keyboardless tablets. BIOS touch-support with GUI menus allows OEMs/ODMs to increase their value-added proposition and provide pre-OS services, Juliet Chen said. When tablets are mostly used for routine tasks, like playing music, viewing photos and calculations, running at a full scale system services may be a waste of resource, Chen added.The superiority of Phoenix SCT 3.0 is reflected by its excellent performance on new-generation chipsets and operating systems. Moreover, it features increased safety, modularity and reusability of the native codebase. It also allows for greater precision and efficiency in product development. Its competitive advantage is also realized by efficient code packing to provide optimal space for computing and decreased energy consumption. Phoenix SCT 3.0 is clearly the next generation BIOS.US-based Phoenix Technologies offers Phoenix SecureCore Technology 3.0, a new UEFI BIOS product featuring safety, optimal touch control and seamless transition to EDK IITerry Chen, Vice President of Development Engineering for Phoenix TechnologiesJuliet Chen, Director of Product Marketing for Phoenix Technologies
Global electronic components distributor Digi-Key Corporation, recognized by design engineers as having the industry's largest selection of electronic components available for immediate shipment, today announced the signing of a global distribution agreement with Enpirion, a leader in integrated power IC solutions."Enpirion has made a name for themselves in the integrated power IC market," said Mark Zack, vice president, global semiconductor product at Digi-Key. "Their cutting-edge solutions offer our customers a fully qualified, drop in solution to meet even the most demanding, high-performance power needs. We are excited to add Enpirion to our broad line card."Enpirion's PowerSoCs with integrated inductors enable the industry's smallest solution footprints and are recognized for their high efficiency, low noise, exceptional thermal performance, high reliability and ease of use. Unlike discrete or module power products, Enpirion's turnkey solutions enable fastest time to market with complete power systems that are fully simulated, characterized, validated and production qualified."We are excited to partner with Digi-Key," said Mark Cieri, Enpirion's vice president of sales and corporate marketing. "Digi-Key's dynamic, Internet-based business model and recognized customer service will make our products and technical collateral more readily available to the global design community who continue to migrate to our integrated power IC solutions."Enpirion's full line of power IC products is available for purchase on Digi-Key's global websites: http://www.digikey.com/The EN5339 POL DC-DC converter, which fits into a 55 mm2 solution area with a 1.1 mm profile (provided by Enpirion)
LILIN have announced the complete integration of the Heitel Video Gateway series of professional digital video transmission and recording systems with all LILIN IP cameras. This integration will allow users of both LILIN and HeiTel products to create security solutions for professional video surveillance and alarm management.The entire LILIN IP camera range can now be used with Heitel Video Gateway products. The PTZ function embedded in LILIN IP cameras allows users to move the camera, zoom and select presets all from the Heitel Video interface.Christian Busch, LILIN's Sales Manager commented on the new integration, "Our products and their features are perfectly suited for the integration with Hietel. Becoming an integrator for the software platform means we are able to access new markets."LILIN have provided quality IP and analogue solutions to the market for over 30 years. Their philosophy of Creativity, Progress and Excellence means sensational new products and technologies are a primary focus. Professional video surveillance and alarm management systems have developed with technology and offer clear benefits for the user, namely operational simplicity.With this new integration LILIN are able to further extend their presence on different software platforms and are able to further add to the user experience. The LILIN and Heitel integration provides a smart, convenient and efficient solution for the user.HeiTel software and hardware products are designed for the transmission and recording of digital video data. User-friendly conception, high reliability and flexibility are their trademarks. HeiTel's core competence, digital video transmission and recording is reflected in the hardware Video Gateway series with the product families CamServer, CamTel, CamDisc, Cam4mobile and CamDisc HNVR. While all of them are hybrid DVRs, The CamDisc HNVR is especially designed for the use with megapixel IP cameras.HeiTel also offers a range of software solutions from single user software (CamControl LITE/PRO) for easy remote control, configuration and transmission up to sophisticated CMS solutions either as autonomous video alarm management (Event Management System) or as integrative solution in combination with third party alarm management products.LILIN is a global IP video manufacturer with over 30 years of experience. Throughout the years, the company has maintained its dedication to Creativity, Progress, and Excellence providing expertise in digital video with a strong focus on innovation moving forward.
Global electronics distributor Digi-Key Corporation, recognized by design engineers as having the industry's largest selection of electronic components available for immediate shipment, was named the "Most Favorite Catalog Distributor" by Electronic Engineering and Product World (EEPW) magazine in China. The company was recognized for its broad product availability, an ability to quickly ship orders of any size and for its exceptional customer service."Digi-Key is pleased to be recognized by EEPW readers as a favorite," said Mark Larson, President of Digi-Key. "China is an important growth area for us and engineers can rest assured that Digi-Key is prepared to support their needs from prototype to production."Electronic Engineering & Product World (EEPW) is jointly published by Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (ISTIC), a division of the Ministry of Science & Technology, and IDG, the leading technology publisher in China. EEPW covers electronic technology, products and markets to engineering managers, executive managers and senior design engineers.Digi-Key Corporation, based in Thief River Falls, Minn., is a global, full-service provider of both prototype/design and production quantities of electronic components, offering more than two million products from over 650 quality name-brand manufacturers at http://www.digikey.com/.With over 790,000 products in stock, an impressive selection of online resources, and the logistical advantage of more than 800,000 square feet of expandable distribution space, Digi-Key continues to move forward, affirming its commitment to stocking the broadest range of electronic components in the industry and providing the best service possible to its customers.Mark Larson, President of Digi-Key
China's booming economy has led the country to invest more on traffic infrastructure which has created the need for traffic management and security monitoring systems overseen by video walls displays in control rooms. Among all the traffic monitoring systems, those monitoring traffic safety in highway tunnels are especially mission-and-life critical.A large system integrator customer in China submitted a bid for a highway tunnel surveillance control room project which comprised of a video surveillance system, an emergency operations system, a vehicle recognition system, and a traffic management system. And crucially at the center, a video wall was needed in the main control room that was able to display all data and video coming from these systems in real time, with advanced warning capabilities that could draw an operators' attention to the most critical images.Supported by the new AVS series—Advantech's newest video wall controller products, and co-validated with Matrox Mura MPX video cards, our customer was able to render a proposal which provided industrial-grade stability and reliability with the highest cost/performance ratio among competitors.System Requirements- Ample inputs for data and video from different sources including 32 cameras and 20 operator workstations or servers- Capability of capturing multiple video sources (VGA, DVI, YPbPr, S-Video, Composite, SDI, etc)- Visualize and display data on multiple monitors with flexible configuration- Outstanding computing performance - Excellent reliability for 24/7 operationBefore choosing Advantech's AVS products, the customer like many other video wall system vendors in the China market today, developed video servers by themselves with components purchased from different sources. They had to test compatibility of these components, including motherboards, video cards, power supplies and others, over and over again and often encountered difficulties in dealing with thermal issues and system performance and this meant a lengthy R&D process with repeated investment.When they finally completed a workable system and shipped it to their customer for on-site installation, things still went wrong—either the graphic cards or memory modules broke loose, or the system couldn't even boot up. This was because their computers were not able to endure vibration during transportation.They were also often having to provide maintenance service for their systems. Individual components purchased from different vendors meant the technical support from their suppliers varied and was often of poor quality, plus they had to stockpile replacement components for maintenance needs, causing extra inventory costs.However, by choosing Advantech's turnkey solutions, all the hassles from R&D, shipment and installation, to after-sale service went away and now they are able to focus on their core business of designing and developing high-end video walls and providing value added services to their end customers.Advantech AVS series video wall controllersare dedicated to video wall applications with industrial grade designs for efficient heat-dissipation, and anti-vibration, stability and reliability features built in. On top of that, each AVS product is sent to Matrox headquarters at Montreal to go through tests to ensure that the computer system is fully compatible with Matrox's Mura MPX video cards and can achieve optimal performance without electrical, mechanical or thermal problems.For 24/7 applications like highway tunnel control room video walls, stability and reliability are crucial. With Advantech AVS series products at the center, their video wall performed with optimal quality and reliability. Advantech's turnkey solution helps system integrators shorten product development cycles, saving R&D investment, and minimizing headaches from rising costs of shipping, installation and operation.To aid maintenance, AVS series have remote control and management functions built in, this helps customers save a lot of time with on-site visits. Advantech acts as single vendor for customers; if something happens they just call Advantech for trouble shooting instead of contacting multiple vendors for support. Advantech's long product life cycle support reduces costs for stockpiling components, global logistics and technical support—saving effort on after sales service and customer support.Finding more case study articles
Queensland Health organization in the state of Queensland, Australia provides a network of fifteen health service districts and the Mater Hospitals. The organization delivers a range of integrated services including hospital inpatient, outpatient and emergency services; community and mental health services; senior care; and public health and health promotion programs. Medtel, established in 1965, is the foremost supplier of high technology and medical systems to the Australasian region. They are a long-term partner of Advantech and together the two have teamed up to deploy four generations of specialized medical equipment including medically-certified hardware, specialized software, and operational support.With a history of reliability and success, it is little wonder that Queensland Health turned to Medtel and Advantech for a solution to enhanced automation and control of perioperative processes throughout the hospital group. They were looking to replace paper-based systems and capture clinical data in real-time. They wanted a slim, easy to maintain, easy to clean device certified for use in a medical environment.Advantech's POC-S157 Slim Point-of-Care terminal was chosen for the 500 unit deployment throughout the state's 32 public hospitals. The system runs Medtel's Winchart application, specifically developed and designed by medically-trained doctors at Medtel to capture clinical information from patient monitoring equipment and peripheral medical devices. The data displayed graphically in real-time, is stored in a customizable database, and the system can be interfaced with external hospital information systems and other applications. The POC-S157 terminals were deployed for use in all phases of the hospital's perioperative treatment, using various software modules of the Winchart application, as well as for electronic patient record keeping, and for medical administration. Since the system is integrated and connected to the hospital information system network, data is available to specific applications in real-time. Doctors and medical staff no longer need to record data after the fact relying on memory or quickly scrawled notes.Medtel's Winchart running on Advantech's POC-S157 Slim Point-of-Care terminals replace paper-based systems and give staff the ability to capture and display real-time information throughout the various phases of the hospital's perioperative environment. Anesthetists can enter information about drugs, fluids, and take other notes. Data accuracy is greatly improved and time is managed better, allowing them to focus on patient care. The POC-S157 point-of-care terminal has a large 15" panel equipped with a touchscreen to graphically display data. It is UL60601-1/ EN60601-1 certified with electrical isolation of LAN and power connections. POC-S157 features an IPX1 water resistant enclosure and an IP65 dust-tight front panel. It can be kept clean with hospital antiseptic cleaners, reducing bacteria and the chance of contamination.BenefitsQueensland Health has reported that the many benefits to the Advantech/Medtel solution have surpassed expectations and they are very satisfied with the results so far. Early estimates show a savings of 90% of the staff's time over the previous paper-based systems. In addition the POC-S157 running Winchart software has brought the hospital:- Reduced liability- Improvements in patient care- Improved data legibility, consistency and accuracy- A tool for data analysis to facilitate research and budgeting- Improved risk management- Decision-making and educational information to the point-of-careQueensland Health has reported that the many benefits to the Advantech/Medtel solution have surpassed expectationsFinding more case study articles
LILIN has announced its integration with Control4, a leading provider of personalized automation and control solutions. This integration means users benefiting from the advantages of automation systems can now control LILIN IP products from the same software platform that controls other appliances in their home or business.The entire LILIN IP product range from megapixel cameras to Network Video Recorders can now be used with Control4 systems. The PTZ function embedded in LILIN IP cameras allows users to move the camera, zoom and select presets all from the Control4 interface. Steve Liddiard, LILIN's Sales Manager commented on the new integration, "Our products and their features are perfectly suited for the integration with Control4. Becoming an integrator for the software platform means we are able to access new markets."LILIN has provided quality IP and analogue solutions to the market for over 30 years. Its philosophy of Creativity, Progress and Excellence means sensational new products and technologies are a primary focus. Home automation systems have developed with technology and offer clear benefits for the user, namely operational simplicity. With this new integration LILIN is able to further extend its presence on different software platforms and is able to further add to the user experience. The LILIN and Control4 integration provides a smart, convenient and efficient home solution for the user.LILIN is a global IP video manufacturer with over 30 years of experience. Throughout the years, the company has maintained its dedication to Creativity, Progress, and Excellence providing expertise in digital video with a strong focus on innovation moving forward.
As technology continues to permeate throughout the world, what other possibilities can panels provide society aside from solely acting as display components? In order to stimulate innovation and promote interdisciplinary talks and collaboration between experts from various fields, Germany-based Merck recently held its Displaying Futures symposium in Taiwan. Merck intended to first depict the future life by the Displaying Futures symposium. Possible roles of display devices will therefore be defined, based upon human's needs in the future life. The symposium featured experts from government, architectural, design, academia, and various scientific fields to discuss how technology can be used in peoples' lives in the future. The moderator of the event was the displays market expert Mr. David Hsieh, Vice President of the Greater China Market at DisplaySearch, who led a lively discussion between experts and audience.The theme of the symposium was "Seamless Transition - From Urbanity to Products," which focused on interaction between humans, information, creativity and the environment. Dr. Bernd Reckmann, Member of the Executive Board of Merck KGaA, said at the event's welcoming ceremony that the fast development of telecommunication technology has caused display technology to become more diversified. He also said that the goal of organizing Displaying Futures is to think of how the industries can move away from old ways of technology-oriented thinking towards brand new viewpoints with which new applications and markets for displays can be developed, and Merck's value in the supply chain can be reinforced. Additionally, he said that choosing Taiwan for this year's symposium was because it is both a very important market for Merck, and a center of innovation and technology for the world.Interdisciplinary exchange between architecture, design and technologyThis year's symposium featured a special guest, Minister Without Portfolio Dr. Simon Chang of the Executive Yuan, who discussed "Digital Convergence for a Better Life." He touched on the importance of connectivity, gateway devices, user interfaces and displays diversification. In a report on the world's IT development released by the World Economic Forum (WEF) this year, Taiwan bumped up its networked readiness ranking to number 11.Dr. Chang emphasized that although Taiwan has competitive advantages, it needs to focus more on reinforcing its broadband infrastructure and creating more high-quality content so that it may be able to establish a unique position within the global market.Dr. Ming-Chin Ho, Director General of the Architecture and Building Research Institute at the Ministry of the Interior, presented a lecture called "Architecture for a New Era: Integrating Smart Technology and Environmental Sustainability." Dr. Ho said that in an environment like Taiwan's where the elderly population is increasing and the birth rate simultaneously decreasing, security, sustainability, energy conservation, health, comfort, human-friendly environments have all become issues that the architectural field must face.Dr. Ho also said that in the future, Taiwan's government will continue to push ICT products for use in smart living environments, adding more smart technologies to the living spaces to enable interaction between various devices, such as smartphones, tablets and home appliances, which will make life more convenient, fulfilling people's dreams of having smart buildings in the future.Mr. Eric Schuldenfrei, co-founder of ESKIU - an international and interdisciplinary architecture studio - said during his presentation, "Future Architecture and Technology," that as the world population is increasing and mega cities throughout Asia rising, energy resources and consumption will pose serious challenges in the future. In an age where urbanization is taking place in the most massive scale ever in history, technology must be pushed beyond its limits to change the methods of constructing cities and living style, so as to increase energy efficiency. Mr. Schuldenfrei also elaborated how LCD, LED, and solar energy panels can be used in architecture materials or in public spaces to increase efficiency, which he believes is the future of innovation.Mr. Felix Schwabe from the Audi Urban Future Initiative Insight Team talked about "Seamless Mobility" and introduced the ideas behind Audi's initiatives. He said that the Audi Urban Future Initiative Insight Team wishes to promote a dialogue among mobility, architecture and urban development. He also said urbanization development is both an opportunity and challenge that we have to face.Mr. Schwabe pointed out that in 1800 there were only three cities, Tokyo, London and Beijing, that surpassed one million in population. However, as of 2012 there are 442 cities that exceed that mark, and it is estimated that within 20 years, 60% of the global population will live in cities. As these trends develop, transport infrastructure cannot be developed with just one single goal, namely to make it bigger. It will also need to incorporate smart applications and technology in order to enhance interaction between the city infrastructures and transportation, for better convenience and energy efficiency. Only with these means will there be a life of seamless mobility, added Mr. Schwabe.Mr. Stefan Karp, Founder of mama interactive, on the other hand presented his unique views in "The Magic Experience of Interaction." Citing The Economist's description of Steve Jobs as a "magician," Mr. Karp noted that truly great products must give consumers a "magical" experience beyond their imagination.Mr. Karp stated that even though perceptions of the world are based on individual experiences, constructing a seamless experience needs a detachment from the complexities of individual users to achieve the goal of intuitive operation. Like Google's search engine, he said, its user interface is easy to understand, and yet behind it is very advanced data processing technology that consumers usually are not aware of. Therefore, when technology makers design products, it is important to understand the essence of technology in order to present technology in encompassing system designs.Combining technology and creativity has been a focal point for technology experts in recent times. Mr. Tony Chang, CEO of Taiwan Design Center, in his speech "The Future World of Co-Existence among Humanism, Science, Technology, and Esthetics," introduced the present trends of interdisciplinary design. He also called attention to new design concepts, such as: how design objects have gone from visible products to invisible services, experience and relationships; how the technology community is moving towards integration through open systems; and how effects of design are far more important than innovation itself.Exploring the "Blue Ocean" for the panel industry"Architecture," "design," "seamless," "technology" and "mobility" - these were the key words that linked all the talks at Displaying Futures. During the Q&A session, the event's guest speakers discussed about the challenges of applying new technologies in the fields of architecture and design. The speakers proposed that the government must be convinced to implement new building codes. Cross-industry collaboration must be encouraged to solve user interface issues arising from product integration. Participation from service providers must also be encouraged. Such solutions will create a future of high-quality life enabled by long-distance healthcare, long-distance security and smart living attributes.Mr. Dick Hsieh, Managing Director of Merck in Taiwan, concluded by noting that the talks at Displaying Futures are meant to discuss how technology could improve peoples' lives and create more user friendly applications and interactions, and define the future role of display technology.Mr. Hsieh said that Merck is attempting to create an industrial platform that will give rise to all kinds of cooperation models in the future. The symposium is not a one-off event, as Merck plans to run more in-depth workshops or projects to explore innovative ideas that are promising. It is hoped that through Displaying Futures that cross-industry partnerships could be established, which could be of special benefit to Taiwan's panel industry in its search for a "Blue Ocean." It could also help other IT industries, and even the medical, architectural, and cultural creative industries. Ultimately, it is hoped that humans' needs can be truly met in the future, allowing an integration of technology and humanity to improve the quality of life.In the face of new opportunities arising from industrial development, Merck hopes Displaying Features will set a precedent and help Taiwan's industries to locate their "Blue Ocean."Merck uses "Seamless Integration -- From Urbanization to Products" as its theme for Displaying Futures. Pictured are Merck's executives with the moderator and speakers at the symposium.Dr. Bernd Reckmann, Member of the Executive Board of Merck KGaA, says Displaying Futures is about moving away from technology-oriented thinking and using new perspectives for bringing new markets and applications to the panel industry.Mr. Dick Hsieh, Managing Director of Merck Taiwan, says Displaying Futures hopes to stimulate interdisciplinary cooperation, particularly helping Taiwan-based panel makers explore "Blue Ocean" opportunities through such cooperation.
ARC Energy recently announced a new publication detailing the advantages of its CHES c-axis sapphire growth technology. CHES achieves 75% or greater material utilization across large diameter sapphire substrate sizes compared to 10-20% utilization for a-axis grown sapphire boules. CHES large diameter wafers cost less, lead to higher LED production throughput per MOCVD run, and have properties (such as lower, more uniform bow) that enable lower cost per lumen. The publication, called "Sapphire That Scales," is the latest in ARC Energy's CHES Foundations series which explains the advantages of CHES technology and furnaces."The industry must move to large diameter wafers to reduce costs, but older sapphire technology has significant limitations moving in that direction," said Hap Hewes, ARC Energy's senior vice president. "That's exactly why we developed CHES technology: to reduce costs for large diameter LED sapphire wafers."Today's high-brightness LED (HB-LED) industry is searching for dramatic cost savings to reduce the price of solid state lighting to enable mass adoption by the general lighting market. A key component to reduce costs is widely identified as moving to large diameter substrates, similar to the move the silicon industry made over 20 years ago. "Sapphire That Scales" explains the significant advantages of moving to 150mm (6-inch) and 200mm (8-inch) substrates. A single MOCVD run simulated using 150mm wafers results in 55% more LED chips. With 200mm wafers the improvement increases to 77% more LED chips over using standard 50mm wafers.Although large diameter substrates have significant benefits, older sapphire growth technology has very low material utilization when growing these substrates. In addition, due to a non-uniform growth time signature, older sapphire growth technologies result in larger and uneven bowing (warp) during epitaxy process in a MOCVD reactor. This reduces LED chip yield and requires expensive workarounds.CHES technology was designed to overcome the drawbacks of older sapphire technologies at large diameters. CHES provides a high material utilization on c-axis and with low defect levels. In addition, growing along the c-axis produces wafers with a single time signature which can result in less bow and warp during epitaxy in the MOCVD reactor. CHES furnaces grow near net shape c-axis boules for 150mm and 200mm cores in production today. This makes CHES furnaces the leading choice for the future of HB-LED production on large diameter sapphire substrates."CHES Foundations Series Part 2: Sapphire That Scales" is available now at http://www.arc-energy.com/.
