ESNA spoke with ReSolve, part of Arrow's newly launched reverse logistics group, which also includes Intechra, an IT asset disposition services company and Converge, an independent distributor, to discuss the importance of a reverse supply chain logistics program. 
The aftermath of Japan's earthquake last month has left the electronics supply chain struggling with production stoppages and shipment delays of electronic components and raw materials supply.
Because the DRAM market is highly volatile the current buyer's market could quickly swing into a seller's market during the second half of 2011. Buyers will need to keep an eye on several key issues.
DOE awards $620M for smart-grid demo projects
Columbus, Ohio — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is awarding $620 million for projects across the nation to demonstrate advanced smart-grid technologies and integrated systems that will help build a smarter and more efficient electrical grid. These 32 demonstration projects, which include large-scale energy storage, smart meters, distribution and transmission system monitoring devices, and a range of other smart technologies, will act as models for deploying integrated smart-grid systems on a broader scale.
This funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will be leveraged with $1 billion in funds from the private sector to support more than $1.6 billion in total smart-grid projects nationally.
Click here for a YouTube video that explains the smart-grid investments.
An analysis by the Electric Power Research Institute estimates that implementing smart-grid technologies could reduce electricity use by more than 4 percent by 2030. This translates into a savings of $20.4 billion for businesses and consumers around the country, according to the DOE.
The demonstration projects are designed to help verify the technological and business viability of new smart technologies and show how fully integrated smart-grid systems can be readily adapted across the country. Applicants say this investment will create thousands of new job opportunities that will include manufacturing workers, engineers, electricians, equipment installers, IT system designers, cyber security specialists, and business and power system analysts.
The first group of 16 awards, totaling $435 million, focuses on fully integrated, regional smart-grid demonstrations in 21 states, representing over 50 utilities and electricity organizations with a combined customer base of almost 100 million consumers. The projects include communications technologies, sensing and control devices, smart meters and in-home systems, and on-site and renewable energy sources that can be integrated into the electrical grid.
The second group of 16 awards, totaling $185 million, will help fund utility-scale energy storage projects that will enhance the reliability and efficiency of the grid, while reducing the need for new electricity plants. The selected projects include advanced battery systems (including flow batteries), flywheels, and compressed air energy systems.
Click here for the complete list of projects.
Delphi Automotive intros an aluminum cable as an alternative to more expensive copper cabling in automotive applications.