Electronics and semiconductors research and development pursues new products, discoveries and services that are better than yesterday’s. This methodical, consistent process is also creative, original and investigative. This process helps companies grow and progress in their industry.

Electronic product development uses science, math and engineering techniques in a systematic manner to find better ways of doing business, better devices, products and manufactured goods. Most companies only spend about 5% of their revenue on research and development. However, electronic and semiconductor companies usually spend a lot more. Consider the following when thinking about R&D for your business:

1. Discover basic electronics R&D institutions who make discoveries and move society forward.

2. Pursue applied research and development in electronics to bring new products to consumers.

3. Use semiconductor research and development directories, forums and resource groups.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use basic research to move society forward in electronics research and development

Basics research is the kind of research often pursued by government, education and larger businesses. This research will help many people in many ways over the long term.

I recommend: At the Microelectronics Research and Communications Institute at the University of Idaho in Moscow, innovative projects continue to engage scientists, researchers and students. With sponsors like NASA, Boeing and Idaho Power, they move forward. The Microelectronics Resource Center at the University of Texas at Austin promotes education, research and development in electronic devices and materials. Their basic research includes nanophotonics, optoelectronics, integrated circuits and microelectronic devices.

Pursue applied research to improve products and services for consumers

Applied research is the kind of research that companies do to improve the bottom line. By doing so, companies grow and progress as they discover and implement improved products.

I recommend: OptiSwitch in San Diego manufactures unique products, such as pulsed laser diode drivers, optically activated gate drivers, high-voltage diodes and solid-state switches. This silicon foundry assists customers in research and development with prototype runs, testing and all levels of planning and production right at their facilities. Enwave Optronics in Irvine offers full-design proto-typing, research and development in semiconductor lasers among other devices and products. DuPont performs applied research as well in the manufacture of advanced LCD, OLED and PDP displays. They offer a broad portfolio of FAB equipment and semiconductor fabrication materials to support systems semiconductor production.

Find electronics and semiconductors research directories and online forums

Research and development is a process that involves investigation and creative discovery. That's why resources with a wealth of information have popped up offering forums, directories, tools and membership services for people interested in electronics and semiconductor R&D.

I recommend: Electronics.ca is a world-class dynamic research group with up-to-the-minute resources, interactive forums on semiconductors, nanotechnology, advanced materials, wireless technology and electronic manufacturing. Semiconducter International has buyer’s guides, articles and news about research and development in electronics and semiconductors.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Governmental, educational and big business high-tech institutions will have funds for basic research. Smaller companies generally do applied research, but the budget is more limited. If you are a smaller company, be sure to talk to a business consultant about how much money your company should apply to R&D to stay current and competitive. High-tech companies do spend more money on R&D than other industries.