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.
ST joystick chip delivers low-power navigation to handhelds
Geneva, Switzerland — STMicroelectronics has introduced an ultra-low-power, single-chip controller IC containing all the functions necessary to control an optical finger navigation (OFN) module or optical joystick. The VD5376 optical joystick controller helps users interact with the increasingly sophisticated features of portable electronic products such as smartphones, laptop PCs, netbooks, media players, GPS devices and remote controls for home-entertainment equipment, said ST.
An optical joystick, or OFN module, enables mobile users to enjoy increased accuracy and flexibility of a desktop-PC mouse while allowing consumer manufacturers to save space with the integration of this small user interface, in contrast to other technologies, such as touchscreens and touchpads, which are often not accurate enough for emerging mobile applications, said ST. In addition, other alternatives such as trackballs or buttons are less suited for small handheld devices, said the company.
How it works: An OFN module is embedded in the outer casing, and incorporates a light source similar to that of a desktop optical mouse. When the user moves a fingertip over the surface of the module, the VD5376 controller IC measures the tiny movements to produce a corresponding change in cursor position on the screen.
The VD5376 contains all the features necessary to manage an OFN module, and is supplied as a bare die that can be easily incorporated into next-generation modules. Features include a highly sensitive and reliable imaging array for detecting finger movement, as well as driver circuitry for the light source.
This chip is compatible with laser, infrared or optical LEDs, thereby maximizing flexibility for module makers. In addition, advanced power-management capabilities contribute to the device’s low overall power consumption, providing longer battery life for end products.
Availability: Now in sample and volume production.
Pricing: $0.40 in bare die in quantities of 100,000+.
Resources: Data brief.
Delphi Automotive intros an aluminum cable as an alternative to more expensive copper cabling in automotive applications.