Dear Reader,
Automobile manufacturers have moved to increase the safety, comfort and engine performance of their products, with the result that the typical automobile has become a repository for a wide range of semiconductor devices. Such innovations as anti-lock braking (ABS) systems and keyless doorlocks, as well as everyday requirements such as alternator regulators and directional signals depend on ST's technologies.
The demand for microchip products in the automotive sector is so pervasive that industry sources estimate a compound annual growth rate of 16% in semiconductor content per vehicle up until the year 2000. In 1997, SGS-THOMSON's sales in products for the automotive market repressented 10,9% of revenues.
With its technological leadership, particularly in BCD/BiCMOS, the Company is able to accommodate a vast array of auto-related applications, including airbags, climate control, instrumentation, transmissions and on-board entertainment systems. Mixed analog/digital ICs produced by the Company have achieved strong market share in such areas as engine managemnet, battery charging, ABS and car information centers.
The next generation of vehicles will require even more sophisticated semiconductor products that will build upon ST's expertise in superintegration.
In this special edition of Product News, SGS-THOMSON Microelectronics presents a selected portfolio of products serving the automotive market.
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