Microelectronics education at polytechnics in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg

The authors describe the history, status, and future prospects of the Polytechnics Association for Microelectronics (PAM) in the state of Baden-Wurttemberg, West Germany. Examples of polytechnical/industry chip design projects are given. The main PAM silicon foundry for fast prototyping is introduced. PCB (printed circuit board) design tool selection criteria are outlined. The future demand for silicon (multiproject chips) and for government funding of PAM activities is discussed. >