Login

or
don't have an account?
back to glossary

Integrated Circuit (IC)

maker

An Integrated Circuit (IC) is a set of electronic circuits on a small flat piece (chip) of semiconductor material, usually silicon.

expanded

Integrated Circuits (ICs) contain a multitude of interconnected transistors, capacitors, and resistors, which work together to perform various functions such as amplification, oscillation, and logic operations. These compact and efficient components are crucial in modern electronic devices, allowing for advancements in computing power and miniaturization of products.

examples

The Intel 4004 is a historic 4-bit microprocessor IC with 2,300 transistors.

Originally used in the Busicom 141-PF printing calculator in 1971, highlighting the transition from discrete transistor-based circuits to integrated microprocessors.

The Texas Instruments LM741 is an operational amplifier IC that provides enhanced performance in analog signal processing.

Commonly used in audio equipment and analog instrumentation where amplification and filtering of signals are required.

related terms

Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C)
I2C is a multi-master, multi-slave, packet-switched, single-ended, serial communication bus.
Microcontroller Unit (MCU)
A microcontroller unit (MCU) is a compact integrated circuit designed to govern a specific operation in an embedded system.
Inductor
An inductor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in a magnetic field when electrical current flows through it.
Series circuit
An electrical circuit configuration where components are connected end-to-end so the current flows through each component in a single path.
Internet of Things (IoT)
A network of interconnected physical devices that can collect and exchange data using embedded sensors, software, and other technologies.