RF semi makers face tradeoffs, says report
K.C. Krishnadas
(09/09/2005 1:23 PM EDT)
URL: eetimes.com
BANGALORE, India — Manufacturers of radiofrequency (RF) semiconductors are in a quandary over the strong, continuing demand for compact, economical and power efficient solutions and remain hard-pressed to develop and deliver high-performance devices to stay afloat.
A study of the global handset RF semiconductor market by Frost & Sullivan (New York) expects revenue to grow from $5.34 billion in 2004 to $8.27 billion in 2008.
Semiconductor suppliers must use the latest technology and add functionality to their products but at the same time keep costs under check.
"RF semiconductor companies will have to design devices that improve the talk time, power characteristics, and overall performance of the RF section in handsets, and support high integration levels that enable the creation of single chip radios and integration of RF and baseband in the future. RF companies are under pressure to invest heavily in process technologies and design mechanisms that make it possible to develop such solutions," said Deepa Doraiswamy, an analyst for Frost & Sullivan.
Intensifying competition, higher customer expectations, and shorter design cycles will force semiconductor manufacturers to develop scalable solutions with advanced power control features and interfaces, the study said.
"There is some scope in the power amplifier and RF transceiver markets, where radical technological innovations are appreciated," Doraiswamy added.
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