A visit to Wales

On my recent editorial trip in Wales, U.K. (sponsored by the Welsh Assembly Government), I visited companies, research facilities, and engineering universities. Before my visit I had no idea that Wales was home to so many semiconductor companies that produced innovative technologies for medical, industrial, and consumer markets.

During my three-day tour I visited many companies such as Aviza Technologies, Zarlink Semiconductor, Syniad Systems, Quantum CAD, and International Rectifier. I was very impressed with the young professionals at Syniad Systemsa company that started out as “a man with a toolbox” and in just three years became a key supplier to the semiconductor industry.

IR Newport is International Rectifier’s most advanced semiconductor manufacturing facility.

During my visit I also had a chance to visit the National Assembly for Wales (www.assemblywales.org)-a highly “green” building with the most advanced electronics IT systems, not to mention high-tech windows that included temperature sensors and open and closed depending on the inside temperature. Cool stuff! I was also allowed to sit and enjoy a hands-on experience with the computer that one of its assembly members uses.

For more information on my trip and the companies I visited, go to www.eebeat.com/?p=669