TABLE OF CONTENTS The solid-state semiconductor components wired into integrated circuits perform many different functions in electronic instruments and machines. In this chapter, the general integrated circuit families and their different functions are explained.
Upon completion of this chapter, you should be able to:
Explain the concept of binary numbering.
List the three major integrated circuit functions.
Compare the basis of analog and digital logic circuits.
List the user and production advantages of logic gate arrays and PROM circuits.
Explain the two major memory circuit types.
Make a list of the four nonvolatile memory circuits.
Compare the performance and cost factors of DRAM and SRAM memory circuits.
The primary products of the semiconductor industry are integrated circuits. Countless numbers and types of circuits can be created using the processes described in this text. A circuit catalog from a major integrated circuit (IC) producer such as National Semiconductor or Mo- torola is as large as a New York City phone book. IBM estimates that their internal circuit catalog lists over 50,000 separate circuits!
Becoming familiar with integrated circuits is not as awesome a task as these high numbers might imply. The burden is eased by the fact that most circuits fall into three primary families: logic, memory, and microprocessors (logic and memory) (Fig. 17.1). Within each circuit family, there are a few principal designs and functions. The multiplicity of circuits comes from the many parameter variations required for specific uses.
