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A Survey of Electronics R and D in the USA
Author(s) -
Prince M.D.
Publication year - 1985
Publication title -
computer graphics forum
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.578
H-Index - 120
eISSN - 1467-8659
pISSN - 0167-7055
DOI - 10.1111/j.1467-8659.1985.tb00236.x
Subject(s) - very large scale integration , electronics , computer science , computer aided manufacturing , microelectronics , graphics , computer graphics , computer technology , computer aided design , software , electronic design automation , engineering , computer engineering , electrical engineering , embedded system , computer graphics (images) , operating system
This paper reviews the large‐scale electronics R&D activities in the United States, with emphasis on microelectronics and computer development. This review serves as useful background in discussing technology trends in computer graphics. The $245,000 million spent by U.S. computer and electronics‐related industry is discussed by categories, and the factors influencing technology development are considered. The U.S. response to the Japanese challenge is reviewed with regard to superspeed and fifth‐generation computers, VLSI chips, and CAD/CAM tools. Various industrial, university, and government activities are discussed. Included are descriptions of the Microelectronics and Computer technology Corp., Semiconductor Research Corp., Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, Electronics Computer‐Aided Manufacturing, and Very High Speed Integrated Circuit programs. The VLSI manufacturing and CAD/CAM design goals of these programs for the 1985–1990 period are summarized. It is pointed out that computer graphics technology and general electronics R&D are strongly interrelated. For example. VLSI circuits are utilized for powerful geometry engines in computer graphic systems. Conversely, CAD/CAM based on computer graphics is essential for the design of VLSI circuits. Finally, computer graphics technology trends are summarized in the areas of VLSI usage, display systems, software, and system architecture.