ROHM Brand Development History

ROHM, as a globally renowned semiconductor and electronic component manufacturer, can be divided into the following five stages of brand development, demonstrating its transformation from a precision electronic parts manufacturer to a global technology leader:
Phase 1: Origin of Entrepreneurship and Accumulation of Basic Technologies (1958-1960s)
In 1958, ROHM was founded by Kenichiro Sato, a graduate of Kyoto University in Japan. Initially named "Kojima Electronics Industry Institute", it focused on the research and production of basic electronic components such as resistors and capacitors. In 1962, the company officially changed its name to "ROHM" and launched its first self-designed resistor, rapidly opening up the Japanese consumer electronics market through high-precision manufacturing processes. In 1969, Rom established a headquarters factory in Kyoto to build a vertically integrated production system, laying the foundation for subsequent technological breakthroughs.
Phase 2: Breakthrough in Semiconductor Technology and Global Market Expansion (1970s-1980s)
In the 1970s, Rom seized the opportunity of the rise of Japan's semiconductor industry and successfully developed the world's first "thin film resistor network for IC", significantly reducing the manufacturing cost of integrated circuits. In 1973, Rom was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and launched a globalization strategy, setting up sales branches in the United States and Europe. In the 1980s, the company launched its first LED display and became a key supplier in the global consumer electronics industry.
Phase Three: Technological Innovation and Deepening of Industrial Chain (1990-2000s)
In the 1990s, ROHM focused on the fields of power semiconductors and analog ICs, introducing industry-leading "super junction MOSFET" technology that significantly improved power management efficiency. In 1995, the company acquired the American power management IC manufacturer "Powervation" to strengthen its technology integration capabilities. In the 2000s, ROHM launched "SiC (silicon carbide) power devices", leading the trend of new generation semiconductor material applications and making breakthroughs in the field of automotive electronics, becoming a core supplier for car companies such as Toyota and Honda.
Stage Four: Technological Leadership in the Era of Green Energy and Intelligent Vehicles (2010-2020)
In the 2010s, ROHM comprehensively laid out the new energy vehicle and renewable energy markets, and its SiC power module was adopted by Tesla Model 3, promoting the improvement of electric vehicle range. In 2016, the company developed the world's smallest "0402 size current detection resistor" to meet the high-precision requirements of small devices such as smartphones. In the 2020s, ROHM launched the "fourth generation SiC MOSFET", which reduced energy loss by 30% and further consolidated its advantages in the field of power semiconductors.
Phase 5: Future Strategy Driven by AI and Carbon Neutrality (2025 and Beyond)
Currently, ROHM is promoting technological innovation around two main themes: "AIoT (Artificial Intelligence+Internet of Things)" and "Carbon Neutrality"
AIoT field: Develop low-power, highly integrated sensor interface ICs and wireless communication modules to support smart home and Industry 4.0 applications.
Carbon neutrality field: By using SiC power devices and GaN (gallium nitride) technology, we aim to improve the efficiency of solar inverters and energy storage systems, and contribute to the global energy transition.
Summary of Brand Core Advantages
Vertical integration of technology: Control the entire industry chain from material development to packaging and testing, ensuring product performance and cost advantages.
Vehicle grade reliability: AEC-Q100/200 certification coverage exceeds 90%, making it the preferred brand for global automotive electronics.
Green technology foresight: SiC power device market share ranks second in the world, helping customers achieve carbon neutrality goals.
Localized service network: Establishing research and development centers and production bases in 20 countries worldwide, leading the industry in response speed.
The development process of ROHM is a microcosm of the semiconductor industry's transition from "Made in Japan" to "Global Technology Leadership". In the future, with the deepening of the AI and green energy revolution, ROHM will continue to focus on materials science and power electronics technology, promoting the evolution of the electronics industry towards greater efficiency and intelligence.