Changing Footprints in the Sand

As silicon geometry continues on its downward spiral, the spectre of the 10-billion transistor system chip is within our sights. It is a thrilling prospect that products based on these devices will have functionality orders of magnitude higher than their present day equivalents. Their sheer scale will require major changes to be made; obviously in their design and fabrication; but perhaps most significantly, to our business practices. Historically, the semiconductor industry has responded to such challenges with new technologies, methodologies, products and business models, as new market leaders appear. Footprints in the sand (silicon) in different shapes and forms from the past will emerge.