Shih describes memory as the “brain” of technological systems, emphasising its crucial importance in storing and processing data, especially with the rise of AI technologies. He highlights how memory is no longer just a storage component but a key enabler of innovation in autonomous driving, robotics, and industrial applications.
In discussing advances in NAND flash and DRAM technologies, Shih draws parallels between autonomous driving and robotics, noting that both require rapid decision-making, low-latency responses, and high-performance memory systems. He stresses the importance of memory that can quickly process complex AI models without creating bottlenecks in system performance.
The conversation delves into the challenging environments of automotive and industrial sectors. Shih explains that memory controllers must withstand extreme temperatures, operate continuously for potentially 20 years, and maintain consistent performance. Silicon Motion addresses these challenges through advanced firmware, proprietary IPs, and optimised technologies.
Three critical certifications are paramount in automotive memory design:
- Automotive SPICE (process quality)
- ISO 26262 (functional safety)
- Cybersecurity ISO 21434
Shih notes that these certifications ensure rigorous development processes, safety mechanisms, and protection against potential security threats. Silicon Motion has achieved level three in Automotive SPICE and meets ISO 26262 level B requirements.
Looking toward future trends, Shih anticipates significant developments in AI, particularly vertical language models tailored for specific industrial and automotive applications. He predicts memory technologies will continue evolving to support more complex, data-intensive systems while maintaining low power consumption and high performance.
Silicon Motion positions itself at the forefront of this technological evolution, focusing on developing memory controllers that meet stringent certification standards while pushing the boundaries of performance and efficiency.
The podcast concludes with Shih’s vision of using vertical AI models to create more efficient, intelligent industrial and automotive systems, ultimately contributing to technological advancement and improved global infrastructure.
To hear more from Steve Shih, you can listen to Electronic Specifier’s interview on Spotify or Apple podcasts.
Electronic Specifier Insights
Series 18 – Episode 10 – Women in tech takeover: an AI mindset
In this special Women in Tech takeover, Sheryl Miles speaks with Jeana Bolanos, Founder and President, SalesE about her unique career journey from nuclear engineer in the US Navy to semiconductor industry professional and now tech entrepreneur.
Series 18 – Episode 9 – Nanusens’ new approach to MEMS integration
Paige West speaks with Dr Josep Montanyà i Silvestre, CEO at Nanusens about the company’s MEMS-in-CMOS technology.
Series 18 – Episode 8 – optimising Edge AI with low-power FPGAs
Paige West speaks with Hussein Osman, Marketing Director, Lattice Semiconductor about the company’s role in enabling Edge AI.
Series 18 – Episode 7 – modern manufacturing needs modern profiling
Paige West speaks with Chris Williams, Head of European Sales, Solderstar about thermal profiling.
Series 18 – Episode 6 – memory at the core of innovation
Paige West speaks with Steve Shih, Automotive and Embedded Product Manager, Silicon Motion about memory being at the core of innovation and, in particular, how it’s transforming the industrial and automotive sectors.
Series 18 – Episode 5 – re-launch of the Systems Change Lab
Paige West speaks with Ellie Carey, Elected Trustee at Engineers Without Borders UK and Eva Fernandez, Strategic Sustainability Consultant at Ramboll about the launch of the 2025 Systems Change Lab.
Series 18 – Episode 4 – shaping IoT’s next chapter with antenna innovation
Paige West speaks with Dermot O'Shea, Co-Founder and CEO, Taoglas about the Internet of Things (IoT) and antenna innovation.
Series 18 – Episode 3 – security for embedded systems
Paige West speaks with Roland Marx, Product Manager, swissbit about the critical world of cybersecurity and swissbit’s Security Upgrade System.
Series 18 – Episode 2 – PXI, LXI, & the modular test puzzle: finding the right fit
Paige West speaks with Tom Sarfi, Business Development Manager, Pickering Interfaces about the differences between LXI & PXI and where each is best suited.
Series 18 – Episode 1 – the future of battery management
Paige West speaks with Joseph Notaro, Vice President Global Sales & Marketing, Dukosi about its cell monitoring system, the DKCMS with C-Synq.
