According to functional classification, it can be divided into four types, mainly memory chips, microprocessors, standard chips, and complex systems on chip (SoCs). According to the types of integrated circuits, they can be divided into three categories: digital chips, analog chips, and hybrid chips.
From a functional perspective, semiconductor storage chips store data and programs on computers and data storage devices. The Random-access memory (RAM) chip provides temporary working space, while the flash memory chip can store information permanently unless it is deleted actively. Read only memory (ROM) and programmable read only memory (PROM) chips cannot be modified. Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM) and Electrically Erasable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) chips can be modified.
A microprocessor includes one or more central processing units (CPUs). Computer servers, personal computers (PCs), tablets, and smartphones may all have multiple CPUs. The 32-bit and 64-bit microprocessors in PCs and servers are based on x86, POWER, and SPARC chip architectures. Mobile devices typically use ARM chip architecture. Weaker 8-bit, 16-bit, and 24-bit microprocessors are mainly used in products such as toys and cars.
Standard chips, also known as commercial integrated circuits, are simple chips used to execute repetitive processing programs. These chips will be mass-produced and typically used for simple devices such as barcode scanners. The commercial IC market is characterized by low profit margins, mainly dominated by large Asian semiconductor manufacturers.
SoC is the most popular new type of chip among manufacturers. In SoC, all electronic components required for the entire system are built into a single chip. SoC has a wider range of functions than microcontroller chips, which typically combine CPU with RAM, ROM, and input/output (I/O) devices. In smartphones, SoC can also integrate graphics, cameras, audio, and video processing functions. By adding a management chip and a radio chip, a three chip solution can also be implemented.
Another classification method for chips is based on the integrated circuits used, and currently most computer processors use digital circuits. These circuits typically combine transistors and logic gates. Sometimes, microcontrollers are added. Digital circuits typically use digital discrete signals based on binary schemes. Use two different voltages, each representing a different logical value.
But this does not mean that analog chips have been completely replaced by digital chips. Power chips typically use analog chips. Broadband signals still require analog chips, which are still used as sensors. In analog chips, voltage and current constantly change at specified points in the circuit. Analog chips typically include transistors and passive components such as inductors, capacitors, and resistors. Analog chips are more prone to generating noise or small changes in voltage, which may result in some errors.
Hybrid circuit semiconductors are a typical type of digital chip with the ability to process both analog and digital circuits. Microcontrollers may include analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) for connecting analog chips, such as temperature
