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Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →In 1999, TRW Components International Inc. (TRWCI) and Cubic Memory Inc. announced plans to combine as Vertical Circuits Inc. (VCI), a company intended to develop dense stacked-memory products. The proposed design stacked and interconnected semiconductor dies or wafer segments to fit more memory into a smaller footprint. The announcement described a business plan and company claims—not proof that products shipped or that the claimed performance and cost benefits were achieved.
What company did TRW and Cubic Memory plan to form?
EE Times reported on October 29, 1999, that Cubic Memory and TRWCI, a TRW unit, would combine as Vertical Circuits Inc. The plan paired Cubic Memory’s patented packaging technology with TRWCI’s spacecraft and electronic products. TRWCI was also described as contributing product lines, production control, marketing capability, and international customer relationships. EE Times’ announcement report describes the proposed combination; it does not establish VCI’s later corporate history.
How was the stacked-memory technology supposed to work?
Cubic Memory’s approach involved stacking and interconnecting multiple semiconductor dies or wafer segments vertically and horizontally. The report describes memory dies or wafer segments stacked without individual chip carriers. In principle, arranging memory in layers could put more capacity in a compact physical area than spreading components across a larger footprint.
VCI claimed this high-density integrated-circuit stacking could increase memory density in a small footprint, improve performance, and lower cost per megabyte. The announcement includes no measured comparisons or independent validation, so those benefits should be understood as company claims rather than established results.
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#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
What applications did VCI target?
The report named computers, workstations, satellite communications, wireless phones, and other digital consumer products as intended markets. These were target applications in the 1999 announcement; the report does not confirm that VCI products were deployed in any of them.
What did the announcement say about investment and market size?
| Figure | What it represented | Qualification |
|---|---|---|
| Several million dollars | Working capital invested in VCI by investors organized by Cubic Memory chairman Peter Friedli, as reported by EE Times in 1999. | The article did not state an exact amount. |
| $1.25 billion annually | Market projection attributed to VCI’s founders and reported by EE Times in 1999. | A founders’ forecast, not independently established market data or a current market estimate. |
What remains unconfirmed?
The EE Times report documents the formation plan and the claims made at the time. It does not establish whether VCI later operated successfully, whether it shipped products, or whether its technology delivered the stated density, performance, or cost benefits. The announcement is therefore useful as a record of a proposed semiconductor venture, not as evidence of a current product or proven technology outcome.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
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Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
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Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
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