WASHINGTON — Worldwide semiconductor sales for 2013 reached $305.6 billion, the highest-ever annual total, the Semiconductor Industry Association announced today. Sales were up 4.8% over 2012, as a record-setting December ($26.6 billion) pushed the industry past its previous mark.

LOS ALTOS, CA -- A bevy of electronics-based options are driving new car decisions, according to a new report. World production of automotive electronics will grow 8.4% this year, up from a 6.8% gain in 2013, says Henderson Ventures in its monthly report.

LONDON -- Wearable technology device sales volumes this year will reach 90 million units, ABI Research projects. Big gains will come from healthcare and sports and activity trackers, the research firm says.

RICHARDSON, TX – Vi Technology this month will launch a tour to bring its new SPI to the US and Mexico. The inspection OEM has reserved a series of "learn and lunch" meetings to present the technical features and offer a hands-on experience to users.

DUBLIN -- Eastern Europe accounted for electronics production worth €55 billion ($63 billion) in 2013, according to new research.

BANNOCKBURN, IL – December North American printed circuit board sales were down 1.9% year-over-year, says IPC. The 90-day moving average orders suggest more lean times are ahead for domestic fabricators, the trade group added.

MINNEAPOLIS – The SMTA is accepting applications from full-time graduate-level students pursuing a degree and working on thesis research in electronic assembly, electronics packaging, or a related field, for the $5000 Charles Hutchins Educational Grant.

FREMONT, CA — Datest today said sales rose 15% year-over-year in 2013. The privately held PCB test, test engineering, and inspection company attributed the growth to nearly 60 new accounts won during the year.

DEARBORN, MI — Panel discussions on issues fundamental to the future of aerospace and defense manufacturing are previewed in new podcasts posted in advance of AeroDef Manufacturing Summit and Exposition, which takes place Feb. 25–27 at the Long Beach (CA) Convention Center.

LONGVIEW, TX -- Flextronics will close its facility here by the end of March and lay off up to 80 workers, the company indicated this week. Programs at the site will be consolidated at other locations in the state. Some workers will be allowed to transfer, the firm said.

TORONTO – Celestica reported fourth-quarter revenue of $1.437 billion, in line with guidance, down 4% year-over-year.

CHANDLER, AZ – Koh Young America has launched its newly renovated demo lab here, providing hands-on training and demonstrations on solder paste inspection and automated optical inspection systems.