SOUTH KIVU, DRC -- The first deposits from a mine dedicated to conflict-free tin mining have been brought from the ground, says an NGO dedicated to ensuring a steady and safe supply of the ore.

WASHINGTON --  The International Trade Commission has launched an investigation to determine whether imports of certain ICs are violating patent infringement laws.

TORONTO – Celestica reported third-quarter profit dropped 13% to $43.7 million year-over-year on weaker demand across all segments.

GLENVIEW, IL – Illinois Tool Works reported third quarter revenues of $4.5 billion, down 1.7%.

ELKHART, IN -- CTS reported third quarter EMS sales fell $15.2 million, or 20%, year-over-year, on customer delays, particularly in the defense and aerospace and communications markets.

SANTA CLARA, CA – Low-cost smartphone shipments are forecast to double every year from 2010 to 2016, increasing from 4.5 million to 311 million, says NPD DisplaySearch.

SAN JOSE -- Stung by a large drop in revenue and trying to meet stated goals for margins, Flextronics is planning another round of layoffs and factory closings.

COPENHAGEN -- The European Commission has proposed to provide Denmark with more than one million euros to help workers laid off by Flextronics' Denmark subsidiary.

GARBSEN, GERMANY -- The Institute of Technical Education in Singapore, Hakko and LPKF Laser & Electronics have signed an agreement to collaborate on training printed circuit board manufacturers.

HIALEAH, FL — Balmoral Funds has acquired the assets of EMS provider Simclar Inc. for an undisclosed amount.

SAN JOSE — North America-based semiconductor equipment manufacturers reported the 90-day moving average worldwide orders rose 2.8% from last year in September.

DANDERYD, SWEDEN – NOTE reported September quarter net income of SEK 6.5 million, down 30.9% compared to the same period in 2011.