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June 16
- The King meets SolderKing
➀ SolderKing Assembly Materials met King Charles III at Windsor Castle after winning the King’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade, reflecting the company’s global impact;
➁ The company reported a 71% growth in overseas sales over three years, with exports now comprising 44% of total revenue, serving markets in Ireland, Scandinavia, and Central Europe;
➂ Founded in 2018 and ISO 9001:2015 certified, SolderKing maintains full UK-based manufacturing control to ensure product quality and support international expansion.
- The Med Is Getting Hotter
➀ 2023 was the hottest year recorded in the Mediterranean, with temperatures exceeding the 1991-2020 average by 0.5°C;
➁ 2024 is expected to continue this trend, with August 15, 2024 marking the hottest day on record;
➂ The report attributes rising temperatures to climate change, leading to sea level rise and ocean acidification.
- 150μs max 1.2Ω photo relay is 1.45 x 2mm
➀ Toshiba developed two high-speed photo relays (TLP3414S and TLP3431S) for semiconductor test equipment, featuring 150μs max switch-on time and compact S-VSON4T packaging (1.45×2×1.3mm);
➁ The TLP3414S supports 32V/250mA with 3Ω max resistance, while the TLP3431S handles 16V/450mA with 1.2Ω max resistance, both offering 500Vrms isolation;
➂ Distributed by Rutronik, these relays use optimized infrared LEDs and photodiode arrays for faster switching while maintaining signal integrity, operating in -40°C to +110°C ranges.
- Kickstarter watch: Acemate smart tennis robot has legs
➀ Acemate launches a smart tennis robot on Kickstarter with autonomous mobility capabilities;
➁ Unlike traditional ball servers, the robot dynamically adjusts its play style based on the opponent's performance;
➂ The project highlights advancements in AI-driven sports training equipment.
- 3.5GHz avalanche photodiode infra-red sensors
➀ Phlux Technology introduces 1550nm avalanche photodiode with 3.5GHz bandwidth, targeting high-speed optical communications and OTDR test equipment;
➁ Reduced die size (30µm) lowers capacitance to 0.15-0.4pF, enabling low noise (excess noise factor <3.5 at 100x gain) and high dynamic range;
➂ Compliant with MIL-STD-883 and Telcordia GR-468, offering TO-46/SMT packaging and applications in long-range/lossy fiber testing with 30MW/cm² damage threshold.
- Google begins rolling out Android 16
➀ Google has rolled out Android 16, prioritizing Pixel devices and publishing its source code via AOSP.
➁ Key updates include enhanced security (e.g., against Intent redirection), Material 3 design enforcement, camera improvements, and predictive back navigation.
➂ A minor Q4 2025 update is planned, but non-Pixel devices will likely see delayed Android 16 adoption.
- Phlux sampling 30 µm optical window version of Noiseless InGaAs APDs
➀ Phlux Technology launches a 30µm optical window version of its Aura Noiseless InGaAs APDs, offering 12X higher sensitivity and GHz-level response for high-speed optical communications and LiDAR applications;
➁ The new sensors reduce laser power requirements by up to 40%, lower system costs, and enhance reliability with MIL-STD-883 compliance and extended operating temperatures;
➂ Enhanced performance stems from antimony alloy integration in semiconductor manufacturing, enabling internal gain up to 120 for superior signal detection.
- Cyient Semiconductor hooks up with MIPS
➀ Cyient Semiconductor partners with MIPS to develop domain-optimized ASICs for real-time, safety-critical applications, power delivery, and compute efficiency.
➁ Collaboration aims to integrate embedded intelligence with advanced power architectures on scalable open platforms to address performance challenges in edge-to-cloud systems.
➂ Target applications include motor drive control, intelligent power management, and safety-critical systems, offered as ASSP or ASIC solutions.
- Q1 fabless revenue up 6% q-o-q
➀ Q1 global fabless semiconductor revenue rose 6% quarter-over-quarter to $77.4 billion, driven by strong market demand;
➁ NVIDIA led with $42.3 billion (up 12% QoQ), followed by Qualcomm ($9.47 billion, down 6%) and Broadcom ($8.2 billion, up 2%);
➂ AMD, MediaTek, and others like Marvell and Realtek rounded out the top ten, reflecting varied performance across the semiconductor sector.
- Imec transistor for 6G FR3 band
➀ Imec developed a GaN MOSHEMT on silicon with record 27.8dBm output power and 66% efficiency at 13GHz/5V, optimized for 6G FR3 band (7-24GHz);
➁ Achieved ultra-low 0.024Ω·mm contact resistance using regrown n⁺(In)GaN, potentially boosting output power density by 70%;
➂ Addresses limitations of current GaAs and SiC-based solutions, enabling scalable silicon platforms for future 6G mobile devices.
- Impulse Space raises Series C for manoeuvrable space vehicles
➀ Impulse Space, a California-based space transportation startup, raised $300 million in Series C funding led by Linse Capital, bringing total funding to $525 million;
➁ The company aims to enhance in-space mobility and scale production, with achievements including Mira spacecraft missions, Helios kick stage development, and $200 million in government/commercial contracts;
➂ Helios, a high-energy propulsion system compatible with major rockets, targets communication, defense, and scientific payload delivery, with its first flight planned for 2026.
- Ed Cools The Vibe On AI Factories
➀ A fictional dialogue depicts Ed advising the UK Prime Minister against large-scale government investment in AI data centers, likening it to the 1980s semiconductor industry debate;
➁ Ed argues that AI factories primarily create temporary construction jobs, rely on imported equipment, and location-independent AI training, suggesting the UK should instead focus on niche expertise in chip applications;
➂ He recommends encouraging private AI infrastructure by easing regulations and ensuring utility access, while securing contractual provisions for emergency capacity use.
June 13
- Rugged circular connectors are latching, threaded or break-away
➀ AirBorn's TriMate rugged circular connectors are now stocked by Mouser, offering performance comparable to MIL-DTL-38999 standards with three mating-retention options: threaded, push-pull latch, and break-away;
➁ The connectors feature gold-plated MIL-C-39029 contacts, anti-over-stress socket hoods, and compatibility with MIL-DTL-38999 accessories, while meeting MIL-STD-810 waterproofing and extreme temperature resistance;
➂ Targeted applications include aerospace, defense systems, drones, robotics, and harsh industrial environments like mining and factory automation.
- Sensorless FOC for stepper motor driver
➀ Nanotec launched the N6 driver for stepper and BLDC motors, featuring sensorless field-oriented control (FOC) and closed-loop control for precise torque/speed management, supporting up to 300W, 6A continuous current, and 18A peak.
➁ It offers multiple communication protocols (EtherCAT, CANopen, Modbus), programming via Plug&Drive Studio, and compatibility with Hall sensors/encoders. An upcoming 'safe torque off' (STO) function enhances safety.
➂ Targeted at laboratory automation, medical technology, and packaging equipment, the driver operates at 12-57.6Vdc and includes digital/analog inputs, brake output, and multi-country application support.
- Alice & Bob adopt CUDA and run 75x faster
➀ Alice & Bob's quantum simulation library Dynamiqs integrated with NVIDIA's CUDA-Q platform achieves up to 75x acceleration in quantum dynamic simulations;
➀ GPU-driven Dynamiqs enables efficient modeling of complex quantum systems and parameter sweeps, significantly reducing computation time;
➂ The collaboration will further optimize GPU interactions with quantum APIs and introduce new capabilities like automatic differentiation for quantum control tasks.
June 12
- Fable: The Curious Admiral
➀ The article recounts Grace Hopper's journey from a curious child dismantling alarm clocks to a pioneering computer scientist;
➁ She contributed to groundbreaking projects like the Harvard Mark 1 and Univac 1, with a supercomputer and IC later named in her honor;
➂ The fable emphasizes that curiosity opens doors, culminating in her becoming a Rear-Admiral and leaving a lasting legacy in computing.
- Right-angle 60A 8.5mm power connectors
➀ Harwin has expanded its Kona high-power connector series with right-angled 4, 3, and 2-pin variants, delivering 60A per contact and EMI shielding for robust performance in extreme environments;
➁ The connectors feature PPS housings, aluminum alloy shields, and operate across -65°C to +150°C, supporting board/panel mounting and flying-lead applications;
➂ Designed for aerospace, automotive, and industrial uses, these UK-manufactured connectors enhance reliability with polarized housings and corrosion-resistant gold-plated beryllium copper contacts.
- Capacitive touch sensing in direct-to-battery automotive MCU
➀ Infineon launched the automotive PSOC 4 HVMS MCU family with capacitive touch sensing, featuring Arm Cortex-M0+ processors (24/48MHz), up to 128KB flash memory, and 4.5-28V direct battery connectivity via integrated LDO.
➁ The MCUs support touch interfaces for steering wheels, door handles, and in-cabin controls, with ISO 26262 ASIL B functional safety, transient voltage protection, and autonomous capacitive scanning via a 5th-gen multi-sense converter.
➂ Available in wettable-flank QFN packages (6x6mm to 9x9mm) and equipped with LIN/CXPI communication, ADC, and safety-focused software libraries for automotive HMI applications.
- What caught your eye? (Displays, R&D tax, Robot hands, AI Fight Club)
➀ Lockheed Martin is developing an AI Fight Club, a simulated environment to test AI systems' performance across military domains;
➁ A robotic hand with 17 embedded cameras and novel algorithms achieves tactile sensing and dual-object manipulation;
➂ Contrasting US and UK R&D tax policies highlight differing approaches to fostering innovation
- UK Space Conference 2025 heading to Manchester
➀ The UK Space Conference 2025 will be held in Manchester on July 16-17, focusing on leveraging space exploration to drive long-term economic growth, workforce development, and regional inclusivity;
➀ UK Space Agency emphasizes that 16% of UK GDP relies on space technologies like navigation and communications, calling for broader industry participation;
➂ The event aligns with the upcoming government Industrial Strategy, serving as a key platform for the biennial space industry.
- Lead times continue to stabilise, says Sourceability
➀ Most commodity components (standard logic, MCUs, etc.) have stabilized in lead times and pricing due to inventory adjustments and conservative procurement, while AI/ML/HPC-related components (DDR5, HBM, SSDs) face tightening supply and rising prices;
➁ Lead times vary across categories: volatile memory (2-22 weeks), storage (6-12 weeks), advanced analog (7-48 weeks), with interconnect prices expected to rise;
➂ External risks like tariffs could disrupt the stabilized supply chain, and procurement remains cautious about long-term orders amid fluctuating demand.
- Marelli to file for Chapter 11
➀ Marelli Holdings, owned by KKR, plans to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in Delaware due to $4.5 billion debt accumulated from mergers and poor financial performance;
➁ Key customer Nissan, contributing 30% of Marelli's sales, faced a significant downturn in 2024, exacerbating the supplier's crisis;
➂ Failed creditor negotiations have led Marelli to seek new investors for business restructuring while maintaining operations under court protection.
- RANsemi becomes inaugural member of Bristol Innovations Zone
➀ RANsemi, a wireless baseband processor specialist, joins the Bristol Innovations Zone as an inaugural member, aiming to foster collaboration between academia and industry in 5G/6G and AI;
➁ The hub offers labs, co-working spaces, and training to accelerate innovation, with a June 12 event featuring experts discussing AI-telecoms convergence;
➂ Partnerships emphasize talent development and real-world impact, leveraging Bristol University’s research network for technological advancements.
- The Smoking Gender Gap
➀ Smoking among men in Asia/Pacific is tied to masculinity or social status, while women smoking is socially discouraged;
➀ WHO projects a 32.9% male smoking rate vs. 6.7% female globally in 2025, with the gap most extreme in Asia;
➀ Indonesia (73% men, 1.8% women) and China (44% men, 1.4% women) contrast sharply with countries like France, Germany, and the U.S., where female smoking rates are higher and male rates lower.
June 11
- Micron sampling HBM4
➀ Micron is sampling HBM4 memory stacks based on its 1ß DRAM process and 12-high packaging, aiming for volume production in 2026;
➁ The HBM4 offers 2.0 TB/s bandwidth per stack, 60% faster performance than HBM3E, and 20% improved power efficiency;
➂ SK Hynix plans HBM4 mass production on 3nm in H2 2025, while Samsung develops 4nm-based HBM4, both collaborating with TSMC for base dies and COWOS packaging.
- PureLiFi adds Kitefin XE
➀ pureLiFi introduces Kitefin XE, a LiFi-based system enhancing network security through light-based wireless communication to counter rising threats;
➁ The technology, initially reserved for national security, expands to government, defense, and enterprises, enabling secure wireless connectivity previously deemed impossible;
➂ LiFi offers superior security against detection/interception, higher capacity than WiFi, and low latency, backed by pureLiFi’s alliance with In-Q-Tel for U.S. national security applications.
- Space startups win MassChallenge Technology in Space Prize
➀ Redpoint Oncology and Fourier won the 2025 MassChallenge Technology in Space Prize, receiving $650,000+ for ISS-based research;
➁ Redpoint Oncology develops antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) for microgravity-accelerated cancer therapy testing, while Fourier tests lightweight radiation-shielding CMC materials for satellite electronics;
➂ The award, funded by Boeing and CASIS, has supported over 30 projects with $20 million in 11 years.
- Top Ten (+6) Semi Companies In Q1
➀ Semiconductor Intelligence releases the list of the top 16 semiconductor companies in Q1 2025, highlighting industry leadership trends;
➀ The article is part of David Manners' 'Ten Best...' series, offering insights into key semiconductor market players;
➂ Included are recommended reads on enterprise WLAN, AR/VR headsets, and supply chain developments, emphasizing broader tech industry shifts.
June 10
- Buying Clothes You Never Wear
➀ The author expresses a personal aversion to buying new clothes, valuing old garments for their nostalgic connections to past experiences;
➀ Some individuals avoid repeating outfits, a behavior the author finds unusual;
➂ A global survey reveals varying rates of purchasing unworn clothes, with 29% of UK women admitting to this habit, compared to 9% in China and 21% of women/15% of men in the U.S.
- IMS: USB and portable real-time spectrum analysers
➀ Aaronia unveiled two spectrum analyzers: the portable Spectran V6 Mobile with 490MHz real-time bandwidth and 140GHz frequency range, and the USB-connected V6 XPR series supporting waveguide inputs;
➁ The Spectran V6 Mobile features an AMD Ryzen processor, up to 16TB SSD storage, and dual batteries, while the V6 XPR series targets automotive radar (76-81GHz) with a 10dB noise figure;
➂ A new 2–40GHz angle-of-arrival antenna (DF 16-20400) and Siglent’s portable multi-instrument announcement were also highlighted at IMS 2025.