Facts About Computer Chips
Computer chips are becoming a ubiquitous part of our world, appearing in many different types of devices and performing a wide range of functions. Personal computers are only one of the places that computer chips perform calculations and allow users to manipulate data that might otherwise be impossible.
Other People Are Reading
-
Definition
-
Computer chips are electronic devices that perform the functions of a CPU, or central processing unit, in an electronic system. Computer chips also contain memory, storing program data or information input by the user. A computer chip is composed of many tiny transistors, which work together to complete calculations and perform all of the command tasks associated with the system. This happens when electricity flows through the transistors, each of which alters its voltage.
History
-
Computer chips as we know them were invented in the 1950s, following the invention of the transistor in 1947. This new technology replaced vacuum tubes that made earlier computers so large and limited their effectiveness. In 1958 Jack Kilby invented the integrated circuit, using a single piece of material (the chip) as a base for the entire network of connections. Layer in the 1950s Robert Noyce developed a new way of connecting the individual transistors on a chip by applying a layer of conductive metal and removing parts of it to form the circuit.
-
Design
-
Computer chips use a variety of materials to conduct electricity and control the flow of hear generated by that electricity. Most computer chips are housed in a ceramic enclosure and may use silicon, gold and platinum for their internal structure. Because of their extremely small size and complex network of connections, modern computer chips are made using photolithography by precision machines that ensure a maximum degree of reliability.
Specifications
-
There are several ways to measure the power and performance of a computer chips. Microprocessors in computer and other digital devices are usually labeled with a speed, which is measured in gigahertz (GHz) or megahertz (MHz). These speeds represent the rate at which data flows through the chip, but it is not the only factor that determines how effective the chip is. Modern computer chips may have multiple cores, allowing them to complete multiple tasks with greater processing power. Other important computer chip specs include cache size and power consumption.
Uses
-
Computer chips are present on most electronic devices today, performing many different functions. Computer chips in cell phones run the phone's operating system and interface with the phone network to make calls and text messages possible. MP3 players use a computer chip to decompress music files and produce the digital signal that the player sends to speakers or headphones. Computer chips are also common in cars where they monitor safety systems, control engine power and power on-board navigation and entertainment systems.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit computer chip image by Mograph from Fotolia.com
