LED manufacturers are developing products that integrate functions like multiple diodes for higher output, ballasts, drivers, voltage converters and interfaces for dimmers.

According to Strategy Analytics GaAs and Compound Semiconductor Technologies Service (GaAs), “Compound Semiconductor Industry Review May 2011: Optoelectronics, Materials and Equipment,” captures the product, technology, contract and financial announcements for companies such as Aixtron, Riber, Cree, Philips Lumileds, GigOptix, Emcore, Opnext, JDSU, Oclaro and GT Solar for May 2011.

“LEDs are proving to be a more energy efficient alternative for a growing number of lighting applications,” noted Eric Higham, Director of the Strategy Analytics GaAs and Compound Semiconductor Technologies Service. “LED manufacturers are improving market penetration by increasing the functionality of their products and making them easier for consumers to use.”

Asif Anwar, Director in the Strategy Analytics Strategic Technologies Practice added, “There is strong activity at all levels of the optoelectronics supply chain, from the companies that make processing equipment, to manufacturers of LEDs, laser diodes and optoelectronic devices to photovoltaic component and equipment manufacturers.”

This viewpoint summarises May 2011 financial, product, contract and employment announcements from major optoelectronic material, device and equipment suppliers. It categorises these announcements by material and equipment, laser, LED and compound photovoltaic activity.