Compound and silicon semiconductors: A technology duet

摘要

While silicon CMOS devices are by far predominant in today's electronic systems, special needs, especially for applications in the rf and optical sectors, are spurring the growth of compound semiconductors and silicon germanium technology. We believe this trend will continue, broadening the part-nership between complementary technologies in the future. The roots of this latest trend go back to the early days of the semiconductor industry, with some fits and starts along the way. Tracing this history will help show how the partnership is grow-ing stronger.