The Future of Electronics Manufacturing: Rethinking Complex Integrated Systems

3 min read

The electronics industry is currently experiencing significant transformations as systems combine various functionalities into smaller form factors. This has led to the increasing complexity of integrating diverse technologies into system designs, blurring the lines between chip, package, board, and assembly. In response to these challenges, iNEMI and IPC have recently published a white paper titled “Complex Integrated Systems: The Future of Electronics Manufacturing” to guide the industry towards the necessary research, development, and manufacturing capabilities for future success.

The white paper addresses several key issues, including the necessity of complex integrated systems in various use-case applications such as 5G mmWave systems, high-performance computing applications, extended reality devices, advanced driver assistance systems, and integrated photonics. It also explores the challenges within the CIS manufacturing ecosystem, the impact on the complete product life cycle, and outlines a roadmap of technical needs, gaps, challenges, and potential solutions. Additionally, the white paper offers recommendations and calls to action to address these issues.

Grace O’Malley, chief technology officer at iNEMI, highlights the importance of addressing the significant technology issues associated with CIS, particularly in fast-growing market segments such as 5G mmWave communications, advanced assisted driving systems, and virtual and augmented reality. The paper aims to ensure an adaptive and profitable CIS manufacturing ecosystem, which currently sees annual investments of tens of billions of dollars in manufacturing capabilities.

Matt Kelly, chief technology officer and vice president, technology solutions at IPC, also emphasizes the significance of CIS as part of a ‘silicon to systems’ approach – an integral part of next-generation electronic products like HPC, AI, 5G/6G wireless, and EV automotive electronic applications.

The “Complex Integrated Systems: The Future of Electronics Manufacturing” white paper is now available for download, providing comprehensive insights into the future of electronics manufacturing. Furthermore, the industry is called upon to get involved in defining and solving key technical issues in a precompetitive space, which will be followed by project-based learning programs and the identification and addressing of standardization needs. Those interested in participating in these efforts are encouraged to sign up.

Aside from the publication of the white paper, several notable developments have taken place in the electronics manufacturing industry. Absolute EMS, a provider of turnkey contract manufacturing services, has completed its ISO 13485:2016 recertification, reaffirming its commitment to excellence in medical device manufacturing. ROCKA Solutions is gearing up to showcase its comprehensive manufacturing solutions at the upcoming Del Mar Electronics & Manufacturing Show, scheduled to take place in San Diego. Additionally, NVIDIA’s GPU Technology Conference (GTC) recently focused on empowering healthcare and manufacturing with high-performance, low-energy chips, while Intraratio introduced AICard, enhancing MES + Yield / IoT management with new advanced manufacturing analytics.

As the industry continues to evolve and embrace complex integrated systems, it is essential for manufacturers and stakeholders to stay informed and actively participate in shaping the future of electronics manufacturing. With the release of the white paper and other notable developments, the stage is set for the industry to come together and address the challenges and opportunities ahead.