Ultrabooks demanding changes to manufacturing process

Ultrabook™ computers are having an impact on more than just the size and shape of laptops; they are also leading to new developments in the manufacturing process, according to technology news provider DigiTimes.

In a December 2011 report, DigiTimes says original equipment manufacturers are likely to employ a number of new processes and use new materials when producing Ultrabooks in order to cater to the wide range of models available.

Many experts believe the Ultrabook will be the big news in consumer technology next year, and as many as 50 models are expected to be introduced at the Consumer Electronics Show in January. This sudden popularity could be significant for manufacturers.

According to DigiTimes, manufacturers like Bin Chuan Enterprise and Chi Cheng Enterprise, both of which are based in Taiwan, expect to benefit from these new production processes, which include unibody chassis, metal stamping and fiberglass. In the coming years, these and other manufacturers are likely to expand their production lines to make way for the up-and-coming technology.

The potential impact of the Ultrabook is enormous. According to research firm IHS iSuppli, Ultrabooks will account for 13 percent of notebook PC shipments in 2012, up from 2 percent in 2011. By 2015, iSuppli anticipates Ultrabooks will represent 43 percent of the notebook market.