TechBlog

Lab-on-a-Chip

Color coding: This prototype of a new paper diagnostic test from Harvard University analyzes the glucose (left well) and protein (right well) content of urine; the top well is a control for the glucose assay. The beige part of the test paper has been treated with a hydrophobic polymer that channels the liquid into the wells. In this test, the paper was dipped in an artificial urine solution that contained glucose and a protein extracted from cow blood.

By taking advantage of the natural movement of liquid through paper, researchers at Harvard’s Whitesides Research Group may have found a way to make microfluidics technology much cheaper. The result could be disposable diagnostic tests simple and abundant enough for use in the developing world.

The field of microfluidics deals with the precise manipulation of tiny quantities of liquid. One of its most promising applications is the so-called lab-on-a-chip, which can work with much smaller fluid samples than larger devices require, potentially allowing for more portable diagnostic tools. But existing microfluidic chips are generally made from comparatively expensive materials like silicon, glass, or plastic and have tiny pumps and valves that can be difficult to manufacture.

Continue reading ‘Lab-on-a-Chip Made of Paper’ »

RF Micro Devices, Inc. (RFMD) recently announced that effective immediately RFMD is reducing its investments in wireless systems, including cellular transceivers and GPS solutions, in order to focus on core semiconductor component opportunities, including cellular front ends and other components in RFMD’s Cellular Products Group (CPG) and the expanding portfolio of semiconductor components in RFMD’s Multi-Market Products Group (MPG).

As a result, RFMD currently expects to eliminate product development expenses related to its wireless systems business by approximately $75 million this fiscal year beginning in the June 2008 quarter, with the full benefit expected to be realized in the December 2008 quarter.

Bob Bruggeworth, president and CEO of RFMD, said, “These strategic actions will enable RFMD to deliver more predictable financial results and substantially higher profitability. We are the industry leader in RF components and the world’s largest manufacturer of compound semiconductors. We are investing in growing markets where we have a demonstrated track record of success, and we will measure our progress using operating income and return on invested capital (ROIC) as key performance metrics. We anticipate steady financial improvement throughout the year, and we currently forecast at least 10% non-GAAP operating income and double-digit ROIC by the end of the calendar year.

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OSRAM Opto Semiconductors, a world leader in LED lighting technology, was presented with Electronic Products’ 2007 Product of the Year Award for its OSTAR Lighting, a 1000-lumen High Brightness LED for general lighting applications in a ceremony held at the company’s North American headquarters in Santa Clara.

Electronic Products is one of the top publications serving the electronics original equipment market and is read by over 120,000 design and development engineers every month. 2008 marks the 32nd annual presentation of its Product of the Year Awards.

“Each year, the editors of Electronic Products select what they feel are among the most significant of the thousands of new products introduced during the year,” said Murray Slovick, Editorial Director, Electronics Group, Hearst Business Media. “It is our way of recognizing excellence in product development.”

Continue reading ‘OSRAM’s 1000-lumen OSTAR LED Wins Electronic Products Magazine’s 2007 Product of the Year Award’ »