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Vietnam has set an ambitious goal to achieve $25 billion in annual revenue from its semiconductor industry by 2030, according to the nation’s development strategy for the sector, which extends to 2050. This strategy, approved by the prime minister, outlines three distinct phases aimed at bolstering Vietnam’s position in the global chip market.

The target is set to rise significantly, with projected annual revenues reaching $50 billion between 2030 and 2040, and $100 billion by 2050.

Phase 1: 2024 – 2030

To reach these milestones, Vietnam will implement the strategy in three phases, starting from 2024 to 2030, with a strong focus on attracting foreign investment. The country plans to capitalize on its geopolitical stability and skilled workforce to draw international investors and position itself as a key global hub for semiconductor talent.

During this initial phase, Vietnam will also boost its capabilities in chip research, design, manufacturing, packaging, and testing. By 2030, the country expects to establish at least 100 chip design companies, one semiconductor manufacturing plant, and 10 chip packaging and testing facilities.

The industry is projected to generate $25 billion annually during this period, contributing 10 to 15 percent of the country’s added value, and employ 50,000 engineers.

Phase 2: 2030 – 2040

In the second phase, from 2030 to 2040, Vietnam aims to become a global electronics and semiconductor powerhouse. The country plans to establish a network of 200 chip design firms, two production plants, and 15 packaging and testing facilities to advance its autonomy in chip design and production technologies.

By the end of this phase, the sector is expected to generate $50 billion annually, with up to 20 percent in added value and a workforce of 100,000 skilled workers.

Phase 3: 2040 – 2050

In the final phase, running from 2040 to 2050, Vietnam aims to rank among the world’s top semiconductor-producing nations. The plan calls for the establishment of 300 chip design companies, three semiconductor manufacturing plants, and 20 packaging and testing facilities, further enhancing the country’s self-sufficiency in chip research and development.

By 2050, Vietnam’s microchip industry is projected to generate $100 billion annually, contributing 20 to 25 percent in added value and completing a fully autonomous semiconductor ecosystem.

To support this ambitious roadmap, the Vietnamese government has laid out a series of initiatives and solutions to expand the chip industry. These include developing a specialized workforce for semiconductors and electronics, attracting global talent and investment, and forming a national steering board for semiconductor development, led by the prime minister, with a dedicated team headed by the information and communications minister.

The government will also provide increased funding for semiconductor research, manufacturing, and environmental sustainability efforts. Strengthening international partnerships in the semiconductor sector and implementing strict environmental regulations, such as managing toxic waste from resource extraction and chip manufacturing, are also key priorities.

The plan aims to create a sustainable and green semiconductor industry in Vietnam, contributing to global environmental protection efforts while advancing the country’s technological capabilities.

Source: tuoitrenews

Microcontrollers (MCUs) are at the heart of countless embedded systems, driving innovations in industries like consumer electronics, automotive, and industrial applications. This article provides an overview of these powerful devices, highlighting their key features and practical uses.

What is a Microcontroller?

It is an integrated circuit designed to perform specific tasks within a system. It combines a processor, memory, and peripheral devices on a single chip, making it ideal for applications that require low power, cost efficiency, and space optimization. They are commonly used in appliances, sensor monitoring, and device communication.

For instance, a car contains multiple MCUs that manage different systems, such as the anti-lock braking system, traction control, fuel injection, and suspension. These MCUs communicate with each other to coordinate actions, ensuring proper system performance. Some may interact with a central computer, while others communicate directly with nearby MCUs. They exchange data through their I/O peripherals and process it to carry out specific tasks efficiently.

A microcontroller is a complete system embedded within a single integrated circuit (IC), typically containing a processor, program memory, RAM, input/output pins, and various other components. (Source: Circuit Basics)

How Do MCUs Work?

These devices manage specific functions within embedded systems. They process data from input/output (I/O) peripherals and use their central processor to interpret the information. Data is temporarily stored in memory, where the processor accesses and applies it using predefined instructions. The results are then communicated through I/O peripherals, triggering the appropriate response.

In many systems, multiple MCUs work together to control various functions. For example, in a car, MCUs manage individual systems such as braking, fuel injection, and suspension, all communicating with each other or a central computer to ensure smooth operation.

Anatomy of a MCU

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): The core of the microcontroller, responsible for executing instructions. It can be 8-bit, 16-bit, or 32-bit, depending on performance requirements.
2. Memory: Microcontrollers use two types of memory—program memory for storing code and data memory for temporary storage. Flash memory is typically used for program storage, while RAM stores data.
3. Input/Output (I/O) Ports: These allow the microcontroller to interface with external devices like sensors and actuators.
4. Peripherals: peripherals like analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), timers, and communication interfaces such as UART, SPI, and I2C to handle specific tasks.

Understanding Microcontroller Architectures

They are categorized by data bus width, which defines how much data is processed per cycle:

• 8-bit:

8-bit microcontrollers are built with an 8-bit data bus, meaning they can process 8 bits (or 1 byte) of data at a time. These control units are ideal for simple applications where low power consumption and cost are the top priorities. They are often used in devices where only basic tasks need to be managed, such as in home appliances and basic control systems.

Examples: Remote controls, basic motor controllers, and small consumer devices like coffee makers or washing machines. These applications require simple decision-making logic, such as turning motors on or off based on sensor inputs.

• 16-bit:

16-bit microcontrollers have a data bus that allows for the processing of 16 bits (or 2 bytes) at once. This wider bus offers better performance than 8-bit architectures, enabling more complex tasks while still keeping power consumption relatively low. They are commonly used in applications where more precision or faster processing is required, but cost and power efficiency are still important.

Examples: Automotive applications, such as digital dashboards or engine control units (ECUs), and industrial systems like temperature controllers or automation systems that require a balance between performance and efficiency.

• 32-bit:

The 32-bit microcontrollers are designed for high-performance applications, with the ability to process 32 bits of data in a single cycle. These microcontrollers offer significant processing power, faster speeds, and can handle more complex instructions. However, they also consume more power and are typically more expensive than their 8-bit or 16-bit counterparts. They are ideal for applications that require intensive computation, data processing, and multi-tasking.

Examples: Advanced robotics, IoT devices that require real-time data processing, medical devices, and smart home hubs. In these applications, the microcontroller handles complex algorithms, manages large volumes of sensor data, and performs multiple tasks simultaneously.

Essential Components of a Microcontroller

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The CPU is the “brain” of the microcontroller, responsible for executing instructions from the program memory. It processes data, performs arithmetic and logical operations, and controls other components based on the tasks it needs to complete. The performance of a microcontroller largely depends on the CPU’s processing speed and architecture (8-bit, 16-bit, or 32-bit).

2. Memory

• Program Memory (Flash/ROM): Stores the microcontroller’s software (firmware) permanently, even when power is off. Flash memory is commonly used, as it allows for rewritable and upgradable firmware.
• Data Memory (RAM): Used for temporarily storing data during program execution. RAM holds variables, sensor data, and intermediate processing results while the microcontroller operates.

3. Input/Output (I/O) Ports

I/O ports are the microcontroller’s interface to the outside world. They allow the microcontroller to communicate with external devices such as sensors, switches, and actuators. These ports can be configured as input (receiving data) or output (sending data) to control or read from external components like motors, LEDs, or displays.

4. Peripherals

Peripherals are built-in hardware components that handle specific tasks:

• Timers/Counters: Track time intervals, manage events, and generate time delays.
• Communication Interfaces (UART, SPI, I2C): Facilitate data exchange between the microcontroller and other devices, such as other microcontrollers, computers, or sensors.
• Analog-to-Digital Converters (ADC): Convert analog signals (e.g., from sensors) into digital values for the microcontroller to process.

5. Clock Generator

The clock generator supplies the timing signal that drives the CPU and other components. The clock speed determines how quickly instructions are processed. Many systems allow for adjusting the clock speed to balance performance and power consumption.

6. Interrupt Controller

The interrupt controller allows the microcontroller to respond quickly to important events, such as a sensor detecting a change or a button being pressed, without continuously checking the inputs. Interrupts can temporarily pause the main program to handle urgent tasks, improving efficiency and response time.

Microcontroller Applications: Detailed Insights and Examples

They serve as the backbone for numerous modern applications. Below are some detailed use cases across different industries:

Home Automation

MCUs are widely used in smart home devices, controlling everything from lighting systems to security features. They can receive input from sensors, process the data, and take appropriate actions, such as adjusting the thermostat or turning off lights.

Example: In a smart thermostat, a microcontroller processes temperature sensor data and controls the HVAC system to maintain a comfortable environment. Similarly, in smart lighting systems, MCUs automate lighting based on motion detection or voice commands.

Robotics

Robots, both simple and complex, rely on MCUs for their core functions. These include controlling motors, processing sensor data, and handling communication between different parts of the system. Embedded processors help execute tasks like movement control and object detection, allowing robots to perform precise functions.

Example: A line-following robot uses MCUs to process data from infrared sensors and adjust motor speeds, ensuring the robot follows a designated path. In more advanced robotics, MCUs control robotic arms used in manufacturing for tasks such as welding or assembling products.

Wearables

Wearable devices, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, are powered by MCUs. They gather and process data from sensors like accelerometers and heart rate monitors, providing real-time feedback to users.

Example: A fitness tracker utilizes a microcontroller to measure physical activity through an accelerometer and calculates steps, calories burned, or heart rate. It manages data processing, power consumption, and wireless communication with smartphones.

Automotive Systems

In modern vehicles, MCUs are used to manage various systems such as engine control, braking, air conditioning, and safety features like airbags and anti-lock braking systems (ABS). These systems rely on MCUs to operate efficiently and ensure vehicle safety.

Example: The Engine Control Unit (ECU) in a car is powered by a microcontroller that monitors sensors related to fuel consumption, air intake, and exhaust. Based on this data, the ECU adjusts the engine’s fuel injection, ensuring optimal performance and reduced emissions. Another example is the use of MCUs in controlling the deployment of airbags during a collision.

Environmental monitoring system

MCUs are essential in environmental monitoring systems, where they gather data from sensors measuring parameters like temperature, humidity, air quality, and soil moisture. These systems can monitor real-time conditions and trigger actions such as turning on ventilation or irrigation systems.

Example: A weather station uses MCUs to process sensor data on temperature, humidity, and wind speed. The embedded controller collects this information, stores it, and transmits it to a central server for analysis or local display. Similarly, air quality monitors use them to detect harmful pollutants and alert users when levels become unsafe.

Industrial Automation

MCUs play a significant role in automating industrial processes. They are embedded in machines and control systems to manage tasks like motor control, temperature regulation, and monitoring production lines.

Example: In a factory assembly line, MCUs control robotic arms that perform repetitive tasks such as picking, placing, or welding parts. They monitor sensors to ensure precision and prevent errors, enhancing overall efficiency.

Microcontrollers vs. Microprocessors

The main difference between these devices lies in their functionality. Microcontrollers are designed for specific tasks, integrating sensors and actuators, while microprocessors focus on computation and require external peripherals like RAM. The former is more energy-efficient and cost-effective, making them ideal for embedded systems. (Find more)

Introducing Asterix – A Project by Hyphen Deux

Hyphen Deux proudly presents Asterix, a high-performance microcontroller tailored for IoT and industrial applications. Powered by the ARM Cortex-M33 core with FPU and TrustZone, Asterix is designed to deliver secure, cost-effective, and energy-efficient solutions. Its advanced analog peripherals, including a 12-bit ADC and DAC, make it perfect for a range of industries, from automotive to industrial and consumer IoT.

Overview of the Microchip Engineers Initiative

In a bold move to advance its semiconductor industry, Ho Chi Minh City has announced a $5 million initiative aimed at training 40,000 microchip engineers by 2030. This is part of a larger strategy to position the city as a key player in the global semiconductor supply chain. The city’s “Semiconductor Industry Development Program,” approved by the HCM City People’s Committee, focuses on establishing a robust ecosystem for semiconductor research, innovation, and production at the Saigon Hi-Tech Park.

By upgrading its infrastructure, developing skilled human resources, and encouraging investment, the city aims to transform its Hi-Tech Park into a national hub for semiconductor research and development. This includes the design and production of high-powered electronic components such as MOSFETs and transistors, which will eventually lay the groundwork for more complex semiconductor products.

The program also envisions creating a Center for Innovation at the Hi-Tech Park’s Business Incubator, fostering a startup ecosystem around semiconductor research. The goal is to support 60 projects, help five Vietnamese companies graduate in the semiconductor design space, and produce 60 intellectual property assets by 2030.

Attracting foreign investment is also a priority. Ho Chi Minh City aims to secure 20 high-tech projects, including one from a major global technology corporation. Additionally, the city is committed to producing semiconductor designs for export.

Collaborations and Partnerships in Microchip Engineers Training

To ensure the success of this initiative, the city plans to collaborate with universities, research institutions, and international experts to train microchip engineers. With the newly established $5 million fund, the city will focus on upskilling approximately 6,000 microchip engineers per year in semiconductor design and related fields. Training courses will be offered for at least 1,200 participants annually, with support from 2-3 international experts.

This ambitious plan reflects the city’s vision to become a global leader in semiconductor innovation and economic growth by 2030.

Hyphen Deux R&D Office at Sacom Chip Sang Building

Hyphen Deux, a leading fabless semiconductor company, is headquartered at the Sacom Chip Sang Building in Saigon Hi-Tech Park, Ho Chi Minh City. This strategic location places the company at the core of Vietnam’s rapidly growing semiconductor industry, positioning it to leverage the country’s expanding technological and innovation ecosystem.

The semiconductor manufacturing process is a highly intricate series of steps that transform raw materials into advanced electronic devices. This journey typically encompasses six major stages: wafer fabrication, patterning, doping, deposition, etching, and wafer assembly, testing, packaging (ATP). Each phase brings its own set of unique challenges but also presents substantial opportunities for innovation, cost reduction, and scalability. In an industry where progress is driven by efficiency and precision, overcoming these challenges can lead to significant growth and technological breakthroughs that have the potential to reshape industries worldwide.

Manufacturing Process Overview: The Path from Wafer to Device

Major processes in semiconductor manufacturing

Major processes in semiconductor wafer fabrication: 1) wafer preparation, 2) pattern transfer, 3) doping, 4) deposition, 5) etching, and 6) packaging.

The semiconductor manufacturing process can be broken down into several essential steps. Each stage demands a high level of precision and advanced technological solutions:

1. Wafer Preparation

The journey begins with the selection of a silicon wafer, the foundational material for semiconductor devices. This wafer undergoes meticulous cleaning and polishing to create an ideal substrate for electronic components. The quality of this initial preparation directly impacts the subsequent stages of the process.

2. Patterning

Photolithography, the critical patterning stage, is where the design of the semiconductor is transferred onto the wafer. This involves applying a thin layer of photoresist and using ultraviolet light to transfer the pattern onto the wafer. The ability to etch smaller, more intricate patterns defines the cutting-edge of semiconductor advancements, driving innovation in electronic design.

3. Doping

Doping involves adding impurities to the silicon wafer, enhancing its electrical properties. Techniques such as ion implantation inject materials like boron or phosphorus into the wafer, creating p-type or n-type semiconductors. Precision in doping is crucial for achieving the desired performance of the electronic components.

4. Deposition

In this phase, thin films of material are applied to the wafer to form electronic components. Techniques such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD), physical vapor deposition (PVD), and atomic layer deposition (ALD) enable the deposition of various materials (metals, oxides, and nitrides), ensuring that each component is built to specification.

5. Etching

After deposition, etching removes unnecessary material to create the desired component structure. Wet, dry, and plasma etching techniques are used depending on the required precision and the nature of the material. This step is critical for shaping the micro-level architecture of the device.

6. Packaging

Once the components are formed, packaging secures them in a functional and protective structure. This step involves attaching components to a substrate and creating connections using wires or other methods. Effective packaging is critical for ensuring the functionality, durability, and longevity of the device in real-world applications.

Overall, from wafer creation to final packaging, the entire process can span several weeks or even months. Each step is highly sophisticated, requiring advanced equipment, materials, and expertise to ensure that the final product meets the stringent standards of performance and reliability.

Schematic summary of the major processing steps in the fabrication of a semiconductor device: 1) p-type substrate wafer, 2) thermal oxidation, 3) photolithography, 4) oxide etching, 5) n+ ion implantation, 6) thermal oxidation, 7) gate photolithography, 8) gate oxide etching, 9) metal deposition, 10) metal contact photolithography, 11) metal etching, and 12) final device.

Trends and Innovations in Semiconductor Manufacturing

The semiconductor industry thrives on constant technological advancements, particularly in core processes like pattern transfer, doping, deposition, etching, and packaging. These developments not only address key challenges but also create opportunities for enhanced performance, smaller device sizes, and more efficient production methods.

1. Pattern Transfer: Advancing Lithography

Innovations in lithography, such as extreme ultraviolet (EUV) technology, have been game-changers, allowing the creation of patterns with features as small as a few nanometers. This advancement has fueled the miniaturization of electronic components and is essential for the production of modern microprocessors. Multi-patterning techniques further push the boundaries of precision by creating smaller, more complex patterns than previously achievable.

2. Doping: Precision and Material Innovation

The advent of new materials for doping, such as germanium and arsenic, has expanded the capabilities of semiconductors. Furthermore, the precision of doping techniques, including molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and CVD, has improved, enabling the creation of more advanced components with optimal electrical properties.

3. Deposition: New Frontiers in Thin Film Technology

Recent breakthroughs in deposition technologies, like metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) and plasma-enhanced techniques, have opened new possibilities for creating highly efficient, high-performance semiconductors. These methods ensure uniform deposition, even on the most complex structures.

4. Etching: Precision and Selectivity

Dry etching techniques such as reactive ion etching (RIE) and plasma etching now offer the precision and control needed for today’s advanced devices. These methods enable the creation of fine features while minimizing damage to adjacent structures, an essential factor in creating high-density integrated circuits.

5. Packaging: Smaller, Faster, and More Efficient

Packaging innovations like 3D stacking, fan-out packaging, and System-in-Package (SiP) are revolutionizing semiconductor design. These methods offer significant advantages, including reduced size, improved performance, and lower power consumption—critical factors in industries ranging from consumer electronics to automotive systems.

Navigating Challenges, Embracing Growth

The semiconductor manufacturing industry is in a constant state of evolution, driven by increasing demand for smaller, faster, and more efficient devices. While the complexity and costs associated with manufacturing are ongoing challenges, advancements in technology present boundless opportunities for growth. As manufacturers continue to push the limits of what is possible, the industry will be a driving force behind innovations that redefine the way we live and work.

By embracing cutting-edge technologies and optimizing production processes, semiconductor companies stand at the forefront of the next wave of technological transformation—one that holds promise not just for electronics but for industries worldwide, from healthcare to automotive to industrial automation.

About Hyphen Deux

Introducing Hyphen Deux, a cutting-edge startup leading semiconductor progress in Vietnam! We’re the leading fabless design house in Vietnam with a highly experienced international team doing any mixed-signal, digital, embedded, or microcontroller chipset designs to deliver silicon solutions to our customers.

Hyphen Deux is ready to support the development process from concept to ASIC (Application-specific integrated circuit) at any stage and in every inch of specification capture, design, layout, verification and integration, manufacturing, and logistics. Developing MCU (Microcontroller), AI processor, and Healthcare Software, changing the game in the ASEAN semiconductor market.

Source: Semiconductor Engineering

Fabless Design: Driving Innovation in the Semiconductor Industry

In today’s technologically advanced world, the intricate devices we rely on, from smartphones to autonomous vehicles, security cameras, home appliances are powered by tiny marvels known as semiconductors. The semiconductor industry is a dynamic and critical sector, powering the devices that have become integral to our daily lives. Within this industry, companies employ different business models to navigate the complex landscape of semiconductor design and manufacturing. In this blog post, we will explore 04 business models in the Semiconductor Design & Manufacturing ecosystem: IDM (Integrated Device Manufacturer), Fabless design, Foundry, and Fab-lite.

1. Integrated Device Manufacturers (IDM)

The IDM model represents a holistic approach to semiconductor manufacturing. In this model, a single company controls all phases of production, from research and development (R&D) to chip fabrication and packaging. This vertical integration allows for streamlined communication between teams, resulting in greater efficiency and faster time-to-market.

Examples: Intel, Samsung, Texas Instruments.

Pros:

• Control Over Entire Process: IDMs oversee every aspect of chip development, from conception to production.
• Innovation: Tight integration of design and manufacturing teams facilitates rapid innovation.
• Customization: Ability to produce custom chips for specific applications.

Cons:

• High Capital Expenditure: Building and maintaining semiconductor fabrication facilities requires substantial capital investment.
• Resource Intensiveness: Managing both design and manufacturing operations can be resource-intensive.
• Market Volatility: IDMs may face challenges adapting to market changes due to extensive in-house manufacturing commitments.

2. Fabless Design

Fabless design companies innovate, design, and market microchips while outsourcing wafer processing, packaging, and testing to third-party partners. They partner with foundries such as TSMC and GlobalFoundries to print designs on wafers and contract out testing and packaging services to outsourced semiconductor assembly and testing (OSAT) providers. Clients of fabless companies are original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or end-user device innovators incorporating microchips into their products.

Examples: Qualcomm, Nvidia, Broadcom, MediaTek, AMD, Hyphen Deux (a Vietnamese start-up specializing in microcontrollers for IoT, automotive, industrial, and AI chips).

Pros:

• Lower Upfront Costs: Outsourcing manufacturing allows fabless companies to focus on design innovation.
• Flexibility: Ability to choose the best foundry for each chip based on features or cost.

Cons:

• Reliance on Foundries: Dependent on foundries for production capacity and pricing.
• Less Control: Reduced control over manufacturing quality and timelines compared to IDMs.

3. Pure-play Foundry

A semiconductor foundry, also known as a fab, is a factory where silicon wafers are manufactured. The main customers of a semiconductor foundry are chip makers such as Hyphen Deux, Qualcomm, Intel, AMD… Foundries emerged in response to the growing need for semiconductor devices, driving the electronics industry towards larger and more efficient fabrication plants.

Examples: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), GlobalFoundries, SIMC.

Pros:

• Cost-Efficiency: Fabless Design companies can avoid high upfront costs associated with building and maintaining fabs.
• Global Presence: Foundries often serve a global clientele, contributing to a diverse customer base.
• Scalability: Easy scalability to accommodate the needs of various clients.

Cons:

• Dependency: Foundries rely on fabless companies for design, tying their success to their clients’ success.
• Limited Control: Lack of control over the entire process may lead to optimization challenges.
• Intense Competition: The foundry market is highly competitive, with several major players vying for business.

4. Fab-lite Model

The Fab-lite model is a hybrid approach where a company owns some semiconductor fabrication facilities but also outsources some production to external foundries. This model offers a balance between in-house production and outsourcing.

Example: GlobalFoundries.

Pros:

• Flexibility: Leverage in-house facilities for critical processes while outsourcing non-core production.
• Risk Mitigation: Reduces dependence on a single manufacturing model.
• Cost Control: Optimize costs by balancing internal and external manufacturing resources.

Cons:

• Complex Management: Managing both in-house and outsourced production can be operationally complex.
• Integration Challenges: Combining internally and externally manufactured components may pose technical challenges.
• Dependency on External Partners: Reliance on external foundries introduces potential supply chain risks.

Conclusion

The semiconductor industry’s evolution is driven by the interplay between IDM, fabless, foundry, and fab-lite models. As technology advances, these business models will adapt to meet the ever-changing demands of the market. Collaboration, specialization, and adaptability will be key factors in navigating the intricate landscape of semiconductor manufacturing, ultimately shaping the technological innovations that define our future.

(Source: techovedas)

Hyphen Deux participated in the Vietnam-ASIA Digital Transformation (DX) Summit 2024, which took place from May 28 to May 29 at the Hanoi International Convention Center. The event, particularly the Plenary Session on Digital and Green Transformation held on May 28, was a significant platform for discussing the development of the digital economy. Esteemed speakers such as H.E. Mr. Tran Luu Quang, a Member of the Party Central Committee and Deputy Prime Minister, and Mr. Nguyen Manh Hung, the Minister of Information and Communications, among others, shared valuable insights that underscored the Vietnamese Government’s dedication to the National Digital Transformation Program. This program aims to drive economic development through comprehensive digital transformation across all sectors, industries, and levels of governance.

H.E. Mr. Tran Luu Quang, a Member of the Party Central Committee and Deputy Prime Minister delivered a speech at the Summit.

The global trends of AI, green, and digital transformation are crucial for sustainable development, and Hyphen Deux is excited to be part of this transformative journey. The DX Summit 2024 served as a premier event for aligning with the government’s efforts to implement the National Digital Transformation Program swiftly and effectively. The summit emphasized the importance of these transformations in achieving Vietnam’s goal, becoming a high-income, strong, and prosperous country by 2045.

Key themes of the DX Summit 2024 included:

• Digital and Green Transformation, promoting ESG policies
• Data collection and management
• Digital trust
• Development and application of new technologies: 5G, AI, IoT
• Semiconductor chips – trends, opportunities, and potential

The Vietnam Software & IT Services Association (VINASA) hosted a seminar on semiconductor industry development on May 29, as part of the summit. Nguyen Thi Le Quyen, Deputy Director of the National Innovation Centre under the Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), highlighted the semiconductor industry’s remarkable compound annual growth rate of 14% over the past two decades. She projected that the industry is on track to become a trillion-dollar sector by 2030.

Quyen emphasized the anticipated surge in workforce demand, noting that by 2030, China is expected to require 400,000 semiconductor professionals, the United States 67,000, with intense competition for talent in South Korea, Japan, and India. This underscores the critical need for Vietnam to prioritize workforce training and development to stay competitive in the semiconductor field.

Nguyễn Thiện Nghĩa, Deputy Director of the Department of Information Technology Industry under the Ministry of Information and Communications, proposed several solutions to bolster Vietnam’s semiconductor human resources. He stressed that beyond training, Vietnam must attract businesses to invest locally to stimulate the domestic semiconductor market. “Despite Vietnam’s many advantages, its contribution to the global semiconductor industry remains minimal,” Nghĩa remarked.

Nghĩa further advocated for promoting the formation of a support ecosystem for chip manufacturing businesses. Such an ecosystem would enhance Vietnam’s appeal to major manufacturing corporations, potentially transforming the country into a hub for semiconductor chip production. “To achieve this, Vietnam needs to address policy shortcomings, prioritize the semiconductor industry, accelerate human resource training, and expand cooperation and investment opportunities in the sector,” he added.

Panel discussion: Developing Vietnam’s Semiconductor Industry – Challenges and Opportunities for Cooperation.

Hyphen Deux, a pioneering Fabless Design Company from Vietnam, was proud to participate in this vibrant industry event. The company showcased its first innovative chip designed for IoT devices, marking a significant milestone for the domestic semiconductor industry. Hyphen Deux’s involvement exemplifies the potential for local companies to make significant contributions to the global semiconductor market.

The seminar underscored the critical importance of a well-trained workforce to meet the growing demands of the semiconductor industry. It also highlighted the need for strategic investments and policy reforms to foster a conducive environment for semiconductor development in Vietnam. The collaborative efforts of government agencies, industry leaders, and educational institutions were seen as pivotal in driving the country’s semiconductor industry forward.

Hyphen Deux Joins Vietnam Semiconductor Map.

As the global semiconductor industry continues its rapid expansion, Vietnam’s proactive approach to developing its semiconductor sector could position it as a key player in the international market. The seminar served as a call to action for all stakeholders to invest in training, infrastructure, and innovation to ensure Vietnam can meet the future demands of this dynamic industry.

In conclusion, the Vietnam-ASIA DX Summit 2024 highlighted the immense growth potential of the semiconductor sector and the critical need for workforce development and strategic investments. The insights shared by industry experts and leaders emphasized the importance of creating a supportive ecosystem for semiconductor businesses and the urgency of addressing policy shortcomings to enhance Vietnam’s competitiveness in the global market. Hyphen Deux’s showcase of its innovative IoT chip design further demonstrated the potential of Vietnamese companies to make significant strides in the semiconductor industry. The event underscored a collaborative effort towards a future where Vietnam plays a significant role in the trillion-dollar semiconductor market projected for 2030.

We were honored to welcome representatives from The Eastern International University (EIU) to Hyphen Deux. The EIU team included Mr. Alexius Oh, Deputy Director of the EIU Office of Industry Engagement, his staff, and Dr. Hung Nguyen, Vice Dean of the EIU School of Engineering.

About The Eastern International University

The Eastern International University (EIU), invested in and developed by the Binh Duong province-headquartered Becamex IDC Corporation, and Hyphen Deux engaged in meaningful discussions about potential partnerships. Together, we explored opportunities for internships, job prospects, and consulting on academic programs for EIU’s engineering courses.

With their upcoming programs in the semiconductor industry, including Integrated Circuit Design (IC Design) and Packaging & Manufacturing, Hyphen Deux is delighted to provide our insights and inputs to enhance these programs.

We are excited about the possibilities this collaboration holds and look forward to contributing to the future success of EIU’s students and programs. Together, we aim to bridge the gap between academia and industry, creating a pipeline of skilled professionals ready to tackle the challenges of the semiconductor segment.

Just like baking a cake requires both an oven and ingredients, a computer needs both a microprocessor and microcontrollers to function properly. The microprocessor handles overall control, while the microcontrollers manage individual components.

Introduction

Imagine you’re baking a cake. You need different tools to mix the ingredients and control the oven’s temperature. In electronics, a microprocessor and a microcontroller are like these tools, each serving a specific purpose.

Let’s Bake a Cake

Picture yourself in a kitchen, baking a cake. The kitchen appliances represent electronic components in a computing system.

Microprocessor: The Head Chef

Think of a microprocessor as the head chef in a bakery. The head chef’s main job is to develop recipes, decide on ingredients, and plan the baking process. Once the plan is ready, the chef assigns tasks to various kitchen appliances like mixers, ovens, and timers, which then follow the chef’s instructions to bake the cakes. In this analogy, the microprocessor is like the head chef, executing instructions and performing calculations, but it needs external components (like memory and input/output devices) to function effectively.

Microcontroller: The Automated Cake Maker

Now, consider a microcontroller as an automated cake-making machine. Imagine a compact machine programmed to mix ingredients, set the temperature, control the baking time, and even decorate the cake. You input the instructions into the machine’s control panel, and it handles the entire process without external help. In this analogy, the microcontroller is like the automated cake maker, integrating the core processing unit, memory, input/output peripherals, and other components all in one package. It’s designed to execute specific tasks autonomously, like controlling a microwave oven, washing machine, or simple robot.

Microprocessor: The Brain

A microprocessor is like the brain of a computer or device, processing information and performing calculations, much like your brain helps you think and make decisions. Whether solving a math problem on your computer or playing a video game on your console, the microprocessor ensures everything runs smoothly with its powerful processing capabilities.

Key Attributes of Microprocessors:

1. Processing Power: Built for raw processing power, suitable for tasks requiring intensive computation.
2. Versatility: Capable of running a wide range of applications, from operating systems to complex software programs.
3. Arithmetic and Logic Operations: Performs arithmetic and logical operations, enabling various calculations and decision-making processes.
4. External Components: Often requires external components for input/output operations and communication.

Microcontroller: The Body

Now, think of a microcontroller as the “controller” of a device. It’s like the mini-computer inside gadgets and machines, helping them perform specific tasks. Imagine a remote-controlled car; the microcontroller inside it makes the car move forward, backward, or turn according to signals from the remote. It’s like the car’s brain, following instructions to perform actions. Microcontrollers are not as powerful as microprocessors but excel at managing one task very well.

Key Attributes of Microcontrollers:

1. Specific Functions: Tailored for specific tasks within devices, focusing on control and response to inputs.
2. Built-in I/O Ports: Equipped with input/output (I/O) ports, allowing direct interfacing with sensors, switches, and external devices.
3. Low-Power Consumption: Optimized for low-power consumption, making them suitable for devices needing to operate for extended periods.
4. Task-Oriented: Executes pre-programmed instructions to perform tasks like reading sensor data, making decisions, and controlling outputs.

Comparison

To sum it up:

• Microprocessor: Like a super-smart person who can do many different things quickly. It’s great for running big programs and handling complex tasks, like your computer’s brain.
• Microcontroller: Imagine a dedicated worker excelling at one specific job. It’s not as powerful as the smart person, but it’s excellent at controlling devices and making them work smoothly.

In short, a microprocessor is like a general-purpose brain handling various tasks, while a microcontroller is a specialized brain managing specific actions in devices. Both are essential in electronics, making our gadgets and machines function as they do.

Conclusion: Embracing the Roles of Microprocessors and Microcontrollers

Microprocessors and microcontrollers are the unsung heroes driving technological advancements. Microprocessors serve as the computational powerhouses behind our computing devices, while microcontrollers empower devices to be smart, responsive, and efficient. Recognizing the distinctions between these components allows us to appreciate their contributions to our daily lives, from the devices we use to the convenience they bring. As technology evolves, the significance of microprocessors and microcontrollers remains steadfast, guiding us towards a future enriched with automation, connectivity, and efficiency.

(Source: techovedas)