What is a Computer Chip Made of?

Computer chips, also known as integrated circuits, are the lifeblood of any computer. Every single action that is performed on a computer, from viewing a YouTube video to writing about computer chips, is controlled in one way or another by an integrated circuit.

Vacuum Tubes

Vacuum tubes were the predecessor of the computer chip. While they performed all of the functions of a computer chip, they were much larger and made of tin and glass.

Steel/Aluminum

In the years immediately after World War II, many scientists tried to emulate the functions of vacuum tubes by using steel or aluminum chips. All of these attempts failed.

Germanium

The first computer chip was invented in 1952. Unlike modern chips, the first chip was constructed out of Germanium.

Silicon

The vast majority of common computer chips are made of silicon. This is a fairly cheap material that can withstand great amounts of heat, making it perfect for use in a computer.

Graphene

While still experimental, scientists at Ohio State University have begun the process of trying to make a computer chip made from graphene. Graphene is the same material used in pencils.