GSA, IET to host semiconductor forum

SAN JOSE, USA: The Global Semiconductor Alliance (GSA) and the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), the largest professional engineering society in Europe, have announced the sixth annual GSA & IET International Semiconductor Forum, to be held on June 2 -3, 2009 at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Munich, Germany.

The 2009 program features more than 20 global semiconductor leaders and is focused on leveraging and maximizing European expertise in analog/mixed-signal, wireless and MEMS applications, as well as addressing the markets for ASICs and multi-die packaging trends. A town hall discussion moderated by Lip-Bu Tan, president and CEO of Cadence Designs Systems, will focus on the future of the emerging company semiconductor business model and will spotlight its impact on sourcing innovation, featuring views from Joep van Beurden, CEO of CSR. The Forum concludes with a timely presentation on preparing for the recovery.

The 2009 Forum brings visionary keynotes, speakers and panelists who will present their views on trends, emerging applications and challenges in these technology segments. This event features four of GSA’s prestigious directors as keynote presenters. In conjunction with the Forum, the event will host an exhibition highlighting semiconductor industry suppliers showcasing their latest products and services, and promoting the expansion of global business partnerships. Global semiconductor leaders will come together for the VIP dinner on June 2, 2009 including the GSA Board of Directors and GSA EMEA Leadership Council.

Dynamic keynote addresses:

* An economist will present views on the duration on the global economic downturn, highlight the macroeconomic factors that will contribute to eventual worldwide recovery, and identify how semiconductor technology can play a large role in overall growth and stability.

* Steve Mollenkopf, Executive Vice President and President, QUALCOMM CDMA Technologies, will present his keynote on "Redefining Mobility: Overcoming the Industry's Next Challenge," highlighting emerging wireless trends and new opportunities in the traditional hand-set market. He will also explore the technological challenges affecting the future of wireless applications.

* Dr. Aart de Geus, CEO of Synopsys, Inc. will speak to “IC Design: Rethink Everything for Recovery Readiness!,” highlighting what is driving the current economic and technological realities for companies engaging in IC design. He will further discuss what looming challenges are waiting just down the road and what solutions will be necessary to equip them to be recovery ready.