Advancing technology in Slovak industry
The ASDAM conference has been the mainstay in the schedule of semiconductor technology since 1996 and the fifth, ASDAM 04, was no exception. The conference, held at the Slovak University of Technology, brought together experts in materials and nanotechnologies, nanostructures and nanodevices, modelling and characterisation, and micro (nano) electromechanical systems. The main aim of the EU-funded ASDAM 04 was to increase the potential of research and technology development (RTD) in these strategic research topics. ASDAM as a conference had already established itself as one of the primary meetings of electronics experts in Central and Eastern Europe. The next move was to exert influence in the arena of microsystem nanotechnologies throughout the EU. Focal topics were nanostructures and devices. There were lectures on new semiconductor materials including silicon carbide (SiC), gallium nitrite (GaN) and aluminium gallium nitrite (AlGaN). Two poster sessions illustrated the future of nanotechnology research. Dissemination of the ASDAM conference outcomes was channelled through the proceedings and resulting published papers. Conference participants will continue the research in the laboratory and the cream of nanodevice technology will also be delivered first hand by lecturers at ASDAM's host institution in Bratislava. ASDAM 04 has provided a welcome injection of state-of-the-art advanced information for the electronics and nanotech sector in Slovakia. Indicating future trends in the industries can help to steer research to a competitive level in a global market.