Mergers and Acquiescence
Hosts Chris Gammell and Dave Jones discuss the consolidation of the semiconductor and electronics distribution industries, specifically analyzing the acquisitions of Linear Technology by Analog Devices, Atmel by Microchip, and ARM by SoftBank. They critique the loss of competition and choice for engineers, referencing the 'Innovator's Dilemma' and the strategic value of tools like LTspice. The conversation also touches on the business models of IoT platforms like Particle, the legal implications of firmware modification, and the future of chip manufacturing.