WLAN Semiconductors a Hotbed for Industry Growth.

While diminishing memory chip price points continue to hinder growth of the overall semiconductor industry and research firms including iSuppli cut '08 chip forecasts as the sector finally starts feeling the pinch of a weakening global economy and decreased consumer spending, connectivity is emerging as its saving grace.

IDC reported today that the worldwide WLAN semiconductor market is pegged to surpass $4 billion in annual sales by 2012 with a CAGR of 22.8%.

Moreover, while PCs are expected to remain the numero uno WLAN application, mobile phone apps are anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 49.3%. With regard to major growth drivers, the latest edition of 802.11 alphabet soup technology - 802.11n technology - is expected to lead the way.

In other recent semiconductor industry news:

The SIA recently stated that the ongoing credit crisis is absolutely hurting demand for semiconductors. The association also insinuated that when it releases its annual industry outlook on 11/9, the report won't be pretty;

Fairchild and Alpha & Omega settled their legal patent dispute and entered into a cross license agreement;

Piper Jaffray upgraded its rating on Volterra Semiconductor (NASDAQ: VLTR) to "Buy" from "Neutral" largely due to a surge in 3rd quarter profits and high expectations for the company's new server platform product offering; and


Legacy Holding, Inc. (OTC BB:LGYH.OB - News) announced that it has successfully applied its green semiconductor wafer drying technology to high volume solar cell production and proven its ability to drastically cut manufacturing times for suppliers.