Out in Front: July 4, 1996

Flash single in-line memory modules (SIMMs) have been quietly finding their way into numerous networking, telecommunications, and printer platforms. As the price of flash components continues to decline, other applications are emerging for flash SIMMs. In-Stat's analysis of the worldwide flash-SIMM merchant market indicates that 1995 worldwide flash-SIMM dollar shipments reached $73.9 million. Although this amount may seem low, the market is just beginning to evolve, and In-Stat expects it to grow at a compound annual-growth rate of 39.5% from 1995 to 2000.

Currently, there are only 11 players in the flash-SIMM market. Flash-component manufacturers have not yet entered the market. Thus, due mainly to the lack of volume, players in the flash-SIMM market have yet to compete with the likes of Intel and AMD. Expect to see more heated competition in the future, as growth in the communications market fuels the demand for flash SIMMs.—by Connie Batchelder, Senior Analyst, IC Card and Module Service, In-Stat.

In-Stat, Scottsdale, AZ. 602-483-4476.