“Companies that do not switch now will be sidelined tomorrow”

The rapid rise of AI and quantum technology is putting the tech world on edge. This was the conclusion during the well-attended Design Automation & Embedded Systems event on April 15 in Den Bosch. Stricter requirements for product safety and cybersecurity require immediate action: those who do not switch now will be sidelined tomorrow.

Keynote speaker Michiel van der Veen (TNO) sets the tone with a wake up call about the European Cyber Resilience Act that will be mandatory from October 2027. “Companies that do not comply with the CRA will no longer be allowed to market their products and risk a fine of up to 15 million euros,” Michiel warns. However, he emphasizes the positive aspects of the new law. “The CRA offers opportunities to generate more turnover and stimulate innovation. Products become more reliable and profitable if you integrate cybersecurity in the design phase.”

After the keynote, 19 parallel sessions will follow in which visitors can choose from a wide range of topics. The entire chain will be discussed: from a well-thought-out PCBA design to the selection of the right housing.

Striking is the well-attended presentation by Dimitri Verheart (Würth Elektronik) on the new EU standard EN18031, an important milestone in cybersecurity legislation for IoT. “The new standard leads to safer products and more data privacy for users. The stricter rules also prevent fraud,” says Dimitri.

Breathless
The closing keynote by Richard van Harderwijk (Quantum Delta NL) and Dimitri van Esch (Quantum Gateway Foundation) draws a full house. In summary: quantum computers will be able to crack current encryption methods in the future at lightning speed, but at the same time offer great opportunities for entrepreneurs with guts. Richard: “Smart companies are already investing in quantum, for example by taking the potential (and dangers) of quantum technology into account when developing new products or software.” The lecture elicits a flood of responses. During the networking reception, speakers, exhibitors and visitors stand together at the standing tables. Quantum is the discussion topic of the day.

Live demos and networking moments
Between sessions, the 319 visitors stream to the stands on the exhibition floor. Some exhibitors have gone all out with demos, refreshments and incentives. The conversations between visitors and exhibitors made one thing very clear: in a rapidly digitalizing world, personal contact is indispensable.

Thanks to all speakers, exhibitors and visitors for this inspiring edition. See you next year!