Customer acceptance of GaAs ICs

It is noted that, throughout the 1980s, a series of technical problems plagued the GaAs IC industry which, compounded by high prices, prevented widespread use of both digital and analog GaAs ICs. Since then much progress has been made in all stages of the GaAs industry, from substrate quality to device design and production. It is pointed out that the GaAs IC customer base is now broadening, helped by the growing number of close working relationships between suppliers and users. From $150 million in merchant GaAs IC sales in 1991, the industry as a whole is projected to show an average annual growth rate of 24% over the next five years to reach $443 million by 1996. It is noted that this figure is more than strong enough to support the industry infrastructure.<>