Baseline Assessment of the Semiconductor Industry
Abstract
For the first twenty-five years after the invention of the transistor, the United States dominated the world semiconductor market. This preeminence was due to a combination of favorable government support, a robust US economy, lack of foreign competition, and good luck. The industry has experienced a profound change since the late 1970s. The United States, still a major world supplier, is no longer dominate. Changing government influence, a battered US economy, the rise of foreign competition, and a lack of national consensus contributed to this change. The phenomenal increases in productivity in this industry have contributed to the growth of the US economy and the superior quality of military weapons. Semiconductors have become so commonplace and so integrated into many segments of the economy that they represent a major national asset. This paper traces the historical development of the semiconductor industry to understand the present industry structure, its conduct, and performance. Based on an analysis the major industry trends and their implications, this paper identifies policy recommendations for government and industry.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA262144
Entities
People
- Ronald Bechtold
Organizations
- Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy