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IC Design: A Brief Overview of Training and Opportunities for Vietnamese Students

Mr. David Thanh, CTO at Hyphen Deux, shared insights on the semiconductor industry, emphasizing training and job opportunities for Vietnamese students in IC design.

Since the early 1990s, India has implemented a national strategy to cultivate a thriving semiconductor industry. This effort has resulted in a significant pool of highly qualified professionals, with over 50,000 individuals in the field as of 2024, many occupying key leadership positions in top global corporations. India boasts numerous prestigious universities offering robust semiconductor training programs. Highlighting India’s achievements in human resource development is relevant because it mirrors Vietnam’s current situation, lacking foundries but having potential in R&D startups and IC design companies.

1. Job opportunities in the Chip industry at businesses?

Below is a list of job positions within the chip manufacturing process. This list, while not exhaustive, provides valuable insights for further research on developing training curricula, instructor plans, and strategic development of relevant majors.

• Positions related to Chip foundry/factory (Foundry): Device Design Engineer, Test, and Characterization Engineer, Process Engineer, TCAD Engineer, Tapeout engineer, Foundry process design Engineer, Integration Engineer, Yield analysis engineer, ESD design technical manager , EBO engineer, Etch process manager, Wet clean process manager, Litho/EUV module engineer, EUV mask materials scientist, Layout design and validation Engineer, CMP engineer, Epitaxy process manager, EUV tool manager, Litho/Patterning process manager, Electrochemical plating module engineering manager, Advanced packaging material development manager,…

• Positions related to sequential design (Analog Design): Memory circuit design engineer, Digital/Mixed-Signal IC design engineer, RF Analog Engineer/RFIC Circuit design engineer, Automated test and characterization engineer, PVD module manager, I/O design engineer, Analog/Power delivery engineer, CAD Physical verification engineer, Patent technical manager, CSV engineer (Virtual Fab).
• Positions related to digital design (Digital Design – IP, ASIC, MCU, SoC,…): Architecture Designer, RTL Designer, Top Integration Engineer, Synthesis Engineer, Formal Verification Engineer, Design Verification Engineer, Package Designer, Physical Design (Back-End) Engineers, Static Timing Analysis Engineers, Design For Test Engineer, Power Integrity Engineer, Thermal Validation, EMIR Engineer, Physical Verification Engineer, Library characterization Engineer, Emulation engineer,…
• Horizontal complementary positions in the ecosystem: EDA R&D researcher, EDA coding engineer, EDA Field Application Engineer (AE), CAD engineer, IP Application Engineer, Solution Service Engineer, Technology R&D engineer, methodology R&D engineer, middle-ware software engineer, system level designer, PCB designer, Die/Package testing engineer, FPGA, Probe card Tester,…

Note: Many of the positions listed will require support specialists or middle managers (often doubling the number of roles). Additionally, additional personnel may be necessary to support each software and method (potentially tripling or quadrupling the positions).

For a comprehensive understanding of the semiconductor ecosystem, refer to companies based or branched in the US.

U.S. Semiconductor Ecosystem Map

It’s important to note that professionals with over ten years of expertise often become specialized, making it challenging to shift to a new specialty. A position change between FrontEnd DV and Backend PD engineers typically only occurs at the senior engineer level and below. (See more)

2. What do domestic and foreign employers need from candidates?

In traditional industries, the process typically involves setting up workshops or factories, producing goods, and then bringing them to market. However, the semiconductor industry has two distinct characteristics:

• Building chip factories is highly capital-intensive and not always feasible, even with substantial funding from national budgets. Only a few companies like TSMC, Samsung, Intel, SMIC, UMC, and Global Foundry can manage such undertakings.
• Semiconductor chip design necessitates a global ecosystem. Relying on a single country or continent is insufficient. The industry comprises various segments: Chip Intellectual Property (IP, Cores), Electronic Design Automation (EDA) Tools, Specialized Materials, Wafer Fab Equipment (WFE), Fabless Chip Companies, and Chip Foundries. Each segment includes numerous companies, and selecting partners involves careful consideration of their capabilities, costs, commercial policies, and legal conditions.

These characteristics underscore the importance of a strategic approach to human resource training in Vietnam. Whether targeting domestic FDI companies or international opportunities, Vietnamese engineers must focus on several key issues:

Obtaining work permits abroad (work passes):

• Degrees and methods of authentication and confirmation.
• Minimum income required on contracts.
• Necessary procedural documents.
• Policies and responsibilities concerning income, taxes, and money transfers.

Conditions for foreign companies recruiting Vietnamese IC Design workforce:

• Ensuring they are unaffected by local unemployment rates.
• Providing social security, health, and education policies for workers and their families.
• Ensuring confidentiality and national security for special projects.
• Complying with international regulations like embargoes and technology transfers

Specific working conditions at a company:

• Working in a multicultural environment or in a local culture with communication, meetings, procedures, documents, and training in the local language.
• If the local language is required for communication within the company or project, engineers need to be proficient in that language or have an effective support strategy.
• Initial support programs for stable and long-term housing (buying a house, car, employment support for dependents, school guarantees for children, language learning support, etc.).

Candidate experience:

• Degrees, certificates, and skills required.
• In addition to fluent English, local language requirements (e.g., Korean, Japanese, Chinese, German, Swedish) for obtaining a visa.
• Countries and companies that recruit candidates without experience.

Mr. David Thanh – Hyphen Deux CTO

3. Conclusion

To export human resources to foreign countries, it’s crucial to thoroughly understand the conditions and requirements of the target country and company. Even minor requirements, like language proficiency or background verification, can take months to prepare for. Typically, companies prefer engineers with at least 2-3 years of experience, as seen in the author’s observations, where inexperienced candidates face challenges with work permits, visas, and adapting to new environments.

For domestic human resources, attracting major technology corporations can ensure a stable labor demand. These companies usually provide comprehensive training programs, encompassing IC Design hard skills, soft skills, professional work styles, and the latest technology. This comprehensive training is essential for the success of the training process and job security in the semiconductor industry.

(#1) https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/work/sundar-pichai-satya-nadella-ajay-banga-arvind-krishna-and-20-other-indian-origin-ceos-of-billion-dollar-companies/sundar-pichai/slideshow/105593531.cms?from=mdr

(#2) https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/cons-products/electronics/semiconductor-sector-thrives-in-india-as-more-talent-chips-in-for-global-companies/articleshow/109082302.cms?from=mdr

(#3) https://www.linkedin.com/posts/prof-mayank-shrivastava-06439413_iisc-microelectronics-and-semiconductor-technology-activity-7196068802990645248-VhGG?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

(#4) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_semiconductor_fabrication_plants

In our fast-evolving digital world, the demand for skilled tech professionals is skyrocketing. As technology advances, new roles are created and existing ones evolve, making the job market dynamic and ever-changing. This guide explores 10 technology jobs predicted to be in high demand over the next ten years, detailing their key responsibilities, required skills, and real-life examples of professionals excelling in these fields.

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning Specialists

AI and machine learning are now crucial across many industries, including healthcare and finance. AI specialists develop algorithms and machine learning models to analyze large datasets, automate processes, and provide valuable insights.

Skills Needed: Proficiency in programming languages like Python, data analysis, statistics, neural networks, and deep learning frameworks.

Example: A machine learning engineer at Netflix optimizing recommendation algorithms to enhance user engagement.

2. Cybersecurity Analysts and Ethical Hackers

With the rise of cyber threats, cybersecurity is a top priority for organizations globally. Cybersecurity analysts and ethical hackers play essential roles in protecting digital assets and mitigating security risks. They assess network vulnerabilities, conduct penetration tests, and implement security measures.

Skills Needed: Strong analytical abilities, knowledge of cybersecurity frameworks and tools, and the ability to think like attackers.

Example: Cybersecurity analysts at Google work to strengthen defenses against evolving cyber threats.

3. Data Scientists and Analysts

In the age of big data, data scientists and analysts are vital for extracting actionable insights from complex datasets. They collect, clean, and analyze data using statistical techniques, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization tools.

Skills Needed: Proficiency in R or Python, expertise in data mining and machine learning, and strong business acumen.

Example: A data scientist at Airbnb analyzing user behavior data to optimize pricing strategies.

4. Cloud Computing Specialists

The rapid adoption of cloud computing is driving demand for professionals who can design, deploy, and manage cloud-based infrastructure and services. Cloud computing specialists, including cloud architects and engineers, help organizations enhance scalability, flexibility, and cost-efficiency.

Skills Needed: Expertise in cloud platforms like AWS or Microsoft Azure, virtualization, networking, and security.

Example: Cloud solutions architects at Adobe Systems optimizing cloud environments for SaaS applications.

5. Software Developers and Engineers

Software development remains at the core of technological innovation, with a constant need for skilled developers to create software solutions. Software developers and engineers build applications, websites, and systems using languages like Java, JavaScript, or C++.

Skills Needed: Collaboration with cross-functional teams, translation of requirements into software features, and ensuring scalability and performance.

Example: Software engineers at SpaceX developing mission-critical software for spacecraft and launch vehicles.

6. DevOps Engineers

DevOps practices aim to streamline software development and deployment through automation, collaboration, and CI/CD pipelines. DevOps engineers bridge the gap between development and operations, enabling faster release cycles and improved software quality.

Skills Needed: Expertise in automation tools like Jenkins or Docker, cloud platforms, and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) principles.

Example: DevOps engineers at Netflix ensuring the reliability and scalability of streaming services.

7. Blockchain Developers

Blockchain technology is transforming industries such as finance, supply chain management, and healthcare. Blockchain developers design and implement decentralized applications (DApps), smart contracts, and blockchain-based solutions using platforms like Ethereum or Hyperledger.

Skills Needed: Proficiency in blockchain programming languages like Solidity, knowledge of cryptography, and distributed systems.

Example: Blockchain developers at IBM building enterprise-grade blockchain solutions.

8. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) Developers

AR and VR technologies are revolutionizing industries by creating immersive and interactive experiences. AR developers overlay digital content onto the real world, while VR developers design virtual environments.

Skills Needed: Tools like Unity or Unreal Engine for AR/VR application development.

Example: AR/VR developers at Meta Platforms creating VR experiences for Oculus headsets and AR features for social media.

9. Internet of Things (IoT) Specialists

The IoT connects billions of devices, driving demand for professionals who can design, develop, and manage IoT ecosystems. IoT specialists work on hardware design, firmware development, and platform integration to enable communication between connected devices.

Skills Needed: Knowledge of embedded systems, wireless communication protocols, and cloud computing.

Example: Hyphen Deux is currently hiring for various positions to develop our first chip, Asterix – a microcontroller designed for IoT, automotive, and industrial applications. Join us to be part of this exciting journey! Explore opportunities with us.

10. Robotics Engineers

Advancements in robotics and automation are creating opportunities for robotics engineers to design and develop robotic systems. They design hardware, develop control algorithms, and integrate sensors for perception and navigation.

Skills Needed: Expertise in robotics, mechatronics, computer vision, and programming languages like C++ or Python.

Example: Robotics engineers at Boston Dynamics developing agile and versatile robots for various applications.

Conclusion

As technology continues to evolve and reshape industries, the demand for skilled tech professionals will grow. The technology jobs outlined in this guide offer promising career opportunities with significant growth potential and the chance to make a meaningful impact. By acquiring the necessary skills, staying updated on emerging technologies, and adapting to evolving roles, aspiring tech professionals can thrive in the dynamic tech industry of the future.

Source: techovedas

From interconnected smart cities to revolutionary advancements in healthcare and industrial IoT solutions, the Internet of Things (IoT) is at the forefront of technological evolution, transcending mere buzzword status to become an integral aspect of modern life. As we journey through this digital era, IoT applications are redefining industries, optimizing efficiency, and ushering in unprecedented connectivity.

Introduction

The Internet of Things (IoT) is transforming various facets of our daily lives and industries, becoming essential in modern technology. This comprehensive guide explores the essence of IoT, its benefits, and the top IoT applications set to dominate in 2024.

What is Internet of Things – IoT?

IoT is a transformative system that interconnects embedded devices, facilitating seamless data exchange over the internet. It extends internet connectivity to diverse devices, from wearables to smart cities, turning the physical world into an integrated, data-driven ecosystem where devices communicate and collaborate.

Benefits of IoT

IoT offers numerous advantages, revolutionizing business operations and personal lifestyles. It enables smarter working and living, automates tasks, improves service delivery, enhances efficiency, and fosters innovation across various sectors. IoT’s ability to streamline processes and provide real-time insights positions it as a catalyst for progress.

Top Applications of IoT

1. Smart Home

Smart home technology is gaining prominence in residential spaces, enhancing practicality and efficiency. Examples include smart thermostats that learn user preferences, adaptive lighting systems responsive to environmental changes, and security systems with real-time monitoring through connected cameras, ensuring a seamless and secure living experience.

2. Wearables

Wearable technology has evolved to include energy-efficient, data-collecting devices. From fitness bands measuring heart rates and calories to smartwatches providing real-time alerts, wearables now incorporate advanced features such as blood pressure monitoring and electrocardiogram (ECG) readings, enhancing health tracking and overall user experience.

3. Smart Cities

Smart cities are transforming urban living through optimized traffic systems and enhanced services. IoT applications include smart surveillance for public safety, automated transportation for efficient mobility, and energy management for sustainability. Waste management systems and environmental monitoring contribute to cleaner and more sustainable urban environments.

4. Smart Grid

Smart grids are significantly impacting energy management with IoT technologies. Equipped with sensors and IoT functionality, smart electricity meters facilitate real-time monitoring, prevent outages, and optimize energy flow for improved efficiency. The integration of renewable energy sources into the grid is also a key focus, contributing to a more sustainable energy ecosystem.

5. Industrial IoT (IIoT)

Industrial IoT (IIoT) is revolutionizing industries with automation, machine learning, and cost-effective solutions. Applications span from factory digitalization for enhanced productivity to supply chain management for streamlined logistics. Predictive maintenance, where IoT sensors detect potential issues in machinery before they occur, is becoming a standard practice in industrial settings.

6. Connected Cars

The automotive industry is rapidly transforming with connected cars offering enhanced safety and connectivity. Features include real-time alerts for drivers, advanced in-car entertainment, and autonomous driving capabilities, making driving safer and more enjoyable. IoT integration in connected cars extends beyond safety, contributing to traffic management through vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication.

7. Healthcare Sector

IoT is positively influencing patient care with continuous monitoring and automated alerts. Wearables, IoT devices, and smart beds equipped with sensors enhance healthcare delivery by providing real-time health information and facilitating easy access to patient history. IoT in healthcare extends to remote patient monitoring, telemedicine, and IoT-enabled medical devices such as insulin pumps and pacemakers.

8. Smart Retail

Retail experiences are elevated with IoT applications, offering quick and efficient in-store checkout. RFID technology reads product tags, enabling seamless transactions, and beacon systems enhance customer engagement by providing personalized offers based on location. Advanced inventory management systems using IoT reduce stockouts and optimize supply chains for retailers.

9. Smart Supply Chain

IoT systems provide transparency and efficiency through tracking systems. Real-time status updates, detailed supply network views, and feedback mechanisms improve logistics and ensure timely deliveries. Blockchain integration in supply chain IoT is gaining traction, enhancing security and traceability in the movement of goods.

10. Smart Agriculture/Farming

IoT empowers farmers with data-driven decisions for improved productivity. Soil condition monitoring, weather data analysis, and smart farming technologies enhance crop yield by providing insights into irrigation planning, optimal planting times, and disease prevention. Drones equipped with IoT sensors contribute to precision agriculture, enabling farmers to monitor large fields more effectively.

Conclusion

The potential for interconnected devices to transform our lives is unparalleled. From smart homes to connected cars and beyond, Internet of Things is shaping a future where seamless connectivity and data-driven insights redefine our relationship with technology. Embrace the IoT revolution – the future has already begun!

Source: techovedas

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Introduction

1. Semiconductor

Semiconductors are materials with electrical conductivity levels between those of conductors and insulators. This unique property allows them to selectively conduct electrical currents, making them ideal for use in electronic devices. Silicon (Si) is the most widely used material in the electronics industry due to its abundance and suitable properties. Silicon wafers serve as the canvas upon which integrated circuits are fabricated.

2. Transistor

One of the most transformative inventions of the 20th century, the transistor revolutionized electronics by amplifying and switching electronic signals. Its invention paved the way for the miniaturization of electronic devices and laid the foundation for integrated circuits.

3. Integrated Circuit (IC)

Integrated circuits, often referred to as microchips, are the epitome of semiconductor technology. Engineers etch these complex assemblies of electronic components onto a small flat piece of semiconductor material, enabling the creation of highly functional electronic systems in a compact form factor.

4. Diode

Diodes are semiconductor devices that allow current to flow in one direction only. Widely used as rectifiers in power supplies and as switching elements in electronic circuits, diodes play a crucial role in directing the flow of electrical currents within electronic systems.

5. CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor)

CMOS technology represents a cornerstone of modern integrated circuit design. Renowned for its low power consumption and high noise immunity, CMOS technology is ubiquitous in digital circuits, powering everything from microprocessors to memory chips.

6. Fabrication Process

The fabrication process encompasses a series of meticulously orchestrated steps aimed at creating integrated circuits on wafers. From deposition and lithography to etching and doping, each stage of the process plays a crucial role in shaping the final functionality and performance of the resulting microchips.

7. Moore’s Law

Moore’s Law, although not a physical law, has served as a guiding principle for the semiconductor industry for several decades. This empirical observation predicts that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles approximately every two years, driving continuous advancements in computing power, cost reduction, and miniaturization.

8. Logic, Memory, and Analog Chips

Logic chips process digital signals using Boolean logic functions, memory chips store and retrieve digital data efficiently, and analog chips bridge the gap between digital and analog domains, enabling the processing and conversion of signals between these two realms. Together, these semiconductor devices form the foundation of modern electronic systems, powering everything from computers and smartphones to complex industrial automation and communication networks.

9. VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration)

VLSI technology represents the pinnacle of semiconductor integration, enabling the creation of complex electronic systems by integrating thousands or even millions of transistors onto a single chip. This technology has revolutionized industries ranging from telecommunications to automotive electronics, empowering the development of innovative and feature-rich electronic devices.

10. Process Node

The term “process node” refers to the size of the smallest feature that can be created on a chip during the manufacturing process. Measured in nanometers, process nodes signify the level of miniaturization achieved in chip fabrication. Smaller process nodes enable the production of devices with higher performance, lower power consumption, and reduced manufacturing costs, driving the relentless march of technological progress.

11. Assembly

Assembly involves the integration of individual semiconductor components into functional electronic systems. This process encompasses die attach, wire bonding, encapsulation, and other techniques aimed at ensuring the reliability and performance of the final product. Advanced assembly technologies, such as flip-chip bonding and wafer-level packaging, enable the creation of compact, high-performance devices suited for a wide range of applications.

12. Fab (Fabrication)

Semiconductor fabrication, often referred to as “Fab,” encompasses the complex series of processes involved in creating integrated circuits on wafers. These processes include photolithography, etching, deposition, doping, and more, each meticulously orchestrated to achieve precise control over device geometry and electrical properties. Advanced fabrication facilities, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and cleanroom environments, enable the production of cutting-edge semiconductor devices with nanometer-scale features.

13. Fabless Company

Fabless 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.

Hyphen Deux is a prominent Vietnamese IC Design specializing in microcontrollers for IoT, automotive, industrial, and AI chips.

14. OSATs (Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test)

OSATs play a crucial role in the supply chain, providing essential services like packaging, testing, and logistics. As manufacturing has become more specialized and capital-intensive, many companies choose to outsource assembly and testing processes to OSATs. These specialized firms leverage economies of scale and expertise to deliver high-quality, cost-effective solutions, allowing companies to focus on core competencies such as design and fabrication.

Conclusion

From the humble beginnings of the transistor to the intricate complexities of VLSI design, the evolution of semiconductor engineering continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the realm of electronics. Understanding these fundamental semiconductor terms is essential for anyone looking to grasp the intricacies of the semiconductor industry.

Source: techovedas

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