Silicon technology has developed along virtually one single line: reducing the minimal size of lithographic features. But has this taken us to the point of diminishing returns? Are we now at a turning point in the logical evolution of microelectronics? Some believe that the semiconductor microelectronics industry has matured: the research game is over (comparisons with the steel industry are being made). Others believe that qualitative progress in hardware technology will come roaring back, based on innovative research.
This debate, spirited as it is, is reflected in the pages of...

Silicon technology has developed along virtually one single line: reducing the minimal size of lithographic features. But has this taken us to the point of diminishing returns? Are we now at a turning point in the logical evolution of microelectronics? Some believe that the semiconductor microelectronics industry has matured: the research game is over (comparisons with the steel industry are being made). Others believe that qualitative progress in hardware technology will come roaring back, based on innovative research.
This debate, spirited as it is, is reflected in the pages of...