Scotland can boast vibrant and diverse electronics industries. Electronics companies in Scotland have adapted to changes in the global industry and capitalised on innovative research and development across several sectors.
The following electronics industries are thriving in Scotland:
Specialist manufacturing
Many electronics manufacturers have re-invented themselves as higher value-added operations rather than volume producers. Using complex processes to make complex products, output tends to be measured in thousands rather than millions.
Intelligent transport
Many Scottish companies are currently operating in Intelligent Transport Systems-related areas. Scotland's strength areas are in wireless communications, sensors, displays, intelligent CCTV and image/video technologies, software development and safety and security.
Security
Another of Scotland’s growth electronics industries. Security technology is researched and developed in Scotland with key areas including identification and authentication screening, surveillance, tracking, sensor technologies, data analysis and cyber security.
Communications technology
Scotland's communications technology market includes around 200 companies and covers four main sectors – fixed-line communications, mobile and wireless communications, broadcast services and cross cutting business (convergence).
Microelectronics and design services
Scotland has been a major global player in this sector for around 40 years and today leads the way in the development of semiconductor technology. Scotland secures high levels of UK research funding based on its excellence in this and other electronics industries.
Optoelectronics
Around 90 companies employ 4200 people in the optoelectronics sector in Scotland. In addition, 13 universities are engaged in optoelectronics, with more than 450 world-class researchers and 50 per cent of all optoelectronics graduates coming from Scottish universities.
Nanotechnology
Scotland is fast gaining a reputation for the development of nanotechnology, with a combination of pioneering companies and advanced university research. Nanotechnology impacts on other fields of science and other electronics industries.
Data Centres
The demand for data centres by 2012 is expected to be 50 per cent higher than in 2007. Highly robust and resilient electricity supplies and a comprehensive IT and technical support infrastructure makes Scotland an attractive location for Data Centres.
Digital media and creative industries
The sector employs over 100,000 people and contributes over $9 billion annually to Scotland’s economy. Like all electronics industries in Scotland, excellent links exist between academia and industry.
A full infrastructure, including a complete supply chain already exists for each of the electronics industries in Scotland with support available to promote growth. Discover the full potential of Scotland’s electronics industries.