How Does an ASIC Work?
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The Basics
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ASIC is short for "Application-Specific Integrated Circuit." It is a small electronic circuit that goes inside a computer and is dedicated to performing one specific task, unlike most computer circuits that are made for handling multiple applications. An ASIC is not all that different from any other circuit. Its physical operations are exactly the same. The difference is that instead of controlling many things, an ASIC controls only one specific thing. An example of an ASIC would be a chip designed with the sole purpose of running a DVD-ROM drive. ASICs are also found in other devices besides computers, like cell phones and video game consoles.
Gates
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An ASIC performs its task using what is called a "logic gate." A logic gate is a type of instruction found in most digital circuits. It is utilized using either a diode or a transistor, and requires its own power source to operate. A logic gate performs its instructions (referred to as "inputs") to perform the desired result (called an "output").
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Development
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Designing a working and successful ASIC can be very cost-prohibitive. It is estimated that just with tools, models, and simulators, (not factoring in labor) a company will spend close to $40,000 designing one ASIC. They can easily earn this back, however, as once the first prototype is made, they can then be mass produced in a factory and sold to electronics manufacturers at huge profits.
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