Plastic-packaged ICs in military equipment

Article Abstract:

The US military is reconsidering its ban on plastic-packaged integrated circuits (ICs). The plastic in the early plastic-encapsulated ICs was susceptible to rapid failure because of damage by corrosive chemicals in the plastic or ones penetrating the porous body. Current plastic ICs are far improved, with device failures in 10 (FIT) billion hours of operation commonly in the 1 to 50 range. The improved failure rate has persuaded the US military of the suitability of the devices to military applications. Other factors promoting US military interest in plastic-packaged ICs include their success in the automotive industry, their possible superior performance in air-conditioned dry environments and the packages' low cost in both pin-through and surface-mount implementations. Military budgets are declining, while new equipment is increasing electronic.

Semiconductors and related devices, Integrated circuits, Laws, regulations and rules, Strategic Planning, Policy, Government Regulation, Chip Packaging

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What 'peace dividend'?

Article Abstract:

World geopolitical trends in late 1989 and 1990 caused many people to expect an instant 'peace dividend' as defense and aerospace resources were redeployed, but in fact Soviet military spending continues unchanged, and no formal treaties limiting strategic and conventional forces have yet been signed. Technologists and businesspeople must consider how to take best advantage of the possibilities presented by these massive changes in the industry. Some expect the market for treaty verification equipment to be an area of growth as new treaties are signed, but others claim that there will be more on-site verification as areas previously kept closed are opened for direct inspection by the other side. Some defense firms plan forays into commercial sectors, and others look to NASA budget increases as potential revenue growth areas.

Aircraft, Aerospace industry, Activism, Political protest, Financial Analysis Software, Industry Analysis, Government Funding, Political Issue, Contractor, Government aid

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Tough defense procurement

Article Abstract:

Added to the usual uncertainties of a presidential election year in 1988 were the need to reduce Federal spending and a perceived lessening need for military buildup. The world's airlines began to modernize their fleets, and the space station was labeled the next major space initiative. Progress continued in the development of advanced sensors and related information processing.

Critique

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