Transistor densities have reached such high levels that even the smallest chips have significant amounts of processing power. Performance advantages and features are often enabled by a range of complementary micro-technologies. End product lifetimes continue to be short and the ability to refine functionality by reprogramming chips becomes a key advantage in coping with fast changing markets. Creative use of programmable microsystems that integrate these technologies provides a competitive advantage to companies worldwide.
Even traditional analogue chips are being designed with programmability in mind so it is no surprise that many Fabless semiconductor companies employ more embedded software engineers than circuit and digital designers Are hardware technology roadmaps software ready? ! Is embedded software the real driver for microsystems innovation?
But, will this trend continue or will there be a new trend that will overtake even the current business models?
Will the next big breakthrough in productivity come from EDA companies which see an opportunity in automating the generation of microcode or will expert systems capture product specifications and create any imaginable functionality to run on a universal embedded processor chip?
Will our industry be held back by a lack of skilled embedded software designers for devices and systems or will universities rise to the challenge? Will Canada have a leadership role in creating new courses that attract young people into our industry?
Can Canadian engineers and scientists impact design and manufacture in domains as varied as BioHealth; Transportation (Aerospace and Automotive); and Information and Communications Technologies?
This year the CMC Microsystems Annual Symposium and the ITAC Executive Forum will cooperate to provide a full day’s content for discussion on trends, research, applications and commercialisation.
So, mark your calendars today and join us for the Awards Banquet, cast your vote for the next recipients, meet Texpo winners and enjoy a full day of stimulating discussion and excellent networking at the 18th annual Executive Forum and CMC Annual Symposium.
Special thanks to the confirmed members of the Organising Committee:
- Indy Chakraborty, AMD Canada
- Brendan Harrison, Klocwork
- Ian McGill, IRAP
- Pierre Paulin, STMicroelectronics
- Ken Wagner, PMC-Sierra
And to the confirmed Outstanding Service Award Selection Committee:
- Brian Doody, CEO, Teledyne DALSA
- Kirk Mandy, recipient of 2011 Outstanding Service Award
- Ian McWalter, President and CEO CMC Microsystems
- Nick Tasker, Consultant
For general information on the Joint ITAC 18th National Executive Forum / 2012 Annual Microsystems Symposium, please contact:
ITAC – Micheline Lepage, Manager, Programs and Events
Email | Telephone: 613-238-4822 x 2245
CMC – Brent Jodoin, Manager, Product and Services Marketing
Email | Telephone: 613-530-4679