Need MEMS?

Maybe, but please tell me first what is a MEMS. It stands for: MicroElectroMechanical Systems. This is one of the hottest technologies out there. Take note of it.

According to the MEMS Industry Association's latest report: "Profound technological advances are being developed by the United States' MicroElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS) industry that will accelerate the creation of new businesses, new jobs and new applications." Is this technology ready? Many industry observers say that despite its major potential, the MEMS industry faces significant near-term fabrication challenges in moving these small, powerful devices from laboratories to commercial products.

How big is this emerging industry? The MEMS Industry Group's second annual State of the Industry Report, which details the survey results of 250 MEMS companies and 60 foundries worldwide, offers an intense examination of MEMS fabrication issues and their impact on commercialization, and contains new recommendations for facilitating the industry's continued growth. Downside is it costs $495.00, but not bad if this is something you must know about.

Revenues for MEMS are forecasted to grow from just under $4 billion in 2001 to more than $9 billion in 2006. MEMS employment has increased 30% since 2001. 54% of MEMS companies surveyed are either selling or developing actuators

You can download the 2001 industry report here for free.

This is one to watch. It tells us that despite what some may claim: Manufacturing is not dead.