Cover Story
Microprocessors Move to Multiples of Multi-core
Microprocessor manufacturers circumvented the critical issue of power consumption by developing products containing multiple CPU cores of an identical type. Eventually, however, no significant benefit will be provided, especially to client devices, just by increasing the number of cores. This is where microprocessors configured with multiple cores of varying types take center stage. A way has been discovered to integrate GPU cores, for example, in allocation of processing tasks according to the strengths and weaknesses of each core. Microprocessors are becoming more like systems-on-chips (SoC), housing all kinds of peripheral circuits.
From Homogeneous to Heterogeneous
Combined GPUs offer solution—general-purpose processors turning into SoCs
The Repercussions of Change
“90% done” means zero value—Naoto Fukasawa
Processors housing a variety of cores could affect software versatility
Special Feature
How the Low Cost Television Manufacturer VIZIO Could Reach the Top in North America
While Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., Sharp Corp. and Sony Corp. have been squaring off against one another in the North American flat panel television market, a newcomer has sprung from obscurity to steal the top market share. The gatecrasher is Vizio, Inc. The biggest difference between Vizio and Japanese manufacturers is that the former’s ability to establish a highly cost-competitive supply chain by not incorporating into its televisions functions of little value to the consumer. This is the exact opposite of Japanese manufacturers who are obsessed with high added value.
Special Feature
Computer Security Switches from Passive to Active
It has usually been after vulnerabilities are identified in an operating system or program that vendors have then set about developing patches to rectify them. Recently, however, an increasing number of viruses and other programs developed with ill intent have been exposing vulnerabilities before vendors get to publicize them and develop patches. This kind of threat is called a “zero-day attack.” The surge in zero-day attacks means conventional computer security technologies, such as for protection from malware, are declining in effectiveness. A more “active” approach will be required to deal with unforeseen attacks.
Special Feature
PoE Control ICs: Products Capable of Handling 25-75W Appear
Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology enables the transmission of electrical power via Ethernet cables. Since standardization in June 2003 as “IEEE 802.3af,” PoE has been employed in equipment such as IP telephones and network cameras. Now an increasing number of PoE control ICs can transmit and receive more power than stipulated under the standard. PoE technology facilitating higher wattage transmission is expected to be standardized in 2008 as “IEEE 802.3at.”
Documentary
Confessions of a Veteran Engineer (Part 2): “You Don’t Have Common Sense”
Keyword
NAND Flash Memory
Key Person
Microsoft Corp., Anoop Gupta: “We Are Looking at the Next 5 Billion People”
NE Interview
Honda Soltec Co., Ltd., President-Director, Akio Kazusa: “We Won’t Imitate the Electronics Industry”
He has been involved in four-wheelers and two-wheelers in the United States, Brazil, India and elsewhere, and launched Honda’s formula one racing team. Now he is in charge of solar cell operations. How does Akio Kazusa intend to lead this new business?
Tutorial
Causes and Countermeasures for Accidents (Final): How Can You Avoid Ignition in Electronic Products?
Sanyo Electric Co., Ltd. has urged consumers to stop using its older electric fans after an accident in which a fan manufactured more than 30 years ago caught fire. Accidents caused by products used over long periods of time are expected to rise. The final installment in this series describes methods for designing products with excellent safety characteristics.
Tutorial
Introduction to Mobile Power Electronics (Part 11): Looking at the Motor in Hybrid Cars
Power electronics and control engineers play an enormous role from the conceptual design stage in the creation of new value through motor driven traction and braking—the control of braking and driving forces. This installment provides engineers with an explanation of traction and brake control techniques focusing on motor and battery power management.
World Report
From China: Considering Japan’s Future From China’s Manufacturing Industry
News
- Film Type PDP Is Finally Commercialized by Shinoda Plasma Corporation
- Sharp and Sony Compete in Ultra-thin Displays
- Because of Patent Infringement in FeliCa, Sony and East Japan Railway Are Demanded to pay 2 Billion Yen
- Murata Manufacturing Enters the Wireless Charging Field
- USB 3.0 Is Unveiled, Maintaining Connector Backward Compatibility
