Generally, there are two ways to classify chips. Generally, they are classified according to the function of the chip, but sometimes they are divided into different types according to the integrated circuits used.
According to the function, it can be divided into four types, mainly memory chips, microprocessors, standard chips and complex systems on a chip (SoCs). According to the type of integrated circuits, it can be divided into three categories, namely digital chips, analog chips and hybrid chips.
Functionally, semiconductor memory chips store data and programs on computers and data storage devices. Random-access memory (RAM) chips provide temporary workspace, while flash-memory chips hold information permanently unless it is actively deleted. 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 may be modifiable.
Microprocessors include one or more central processing units (CPUs). Computer servers, personal computers (PCs), tablets, and smartphones may all have multiple CPUs. 32-bit and 64-bit microprocessors in PCs and servers are based on x86, POWER and SPARC chip architectures. And mobile devices usually use the ARM chip architecture. Less powerful 8-, 16- and 24-bit microprocessors are used in toys and automobiles.
Standard chips, also known as commercial integrated circuits, are simple chips used to perform repetitive processing routines. The chips are mass-produced and are typically used in simple-purpose devices such as barcode scanners. The commercial IC market is characterized by lower profit margins and is dominated by large semiconductor manufacturers in Asia.
SoC is a new type of chip that is most popular with manufacturers. In an SoC, all the electronic components required for the entire system are built into a single chip. SoCs have broader capabilities than microcontroller chips, which typically combine a CPU with RAM, ROM, and input/output (I/O) devices. In smartphones, SoCs can also integrate graphics, camera, audio and video processing functions. A three-chip solution can also be achieved by adding a management chip and a radio chip.
Another way of classifying chips is to divide them according to the integrated circuits used. Most computer processors currently use digital circuits. These circuits usually combine transistors and logic gates. Occasionally, microcontrollers are added. Digital circuits typically use digital discrete signals based on a binary scheme. Two different voltages are used, each representing a different logic value.
But this does not mean that analog chips have been completely replaced by digital chips. Power chips are usually analog chips. Broadband signals also still require analog chips, which are still used as sensors. In analog chips, voltages and currents are constantly changing 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 noise or small changes in voltage, which can create some errors.
A hybrid circuit semiconductor is a typical digital chip that has the technology to process both analog and digital circuits. Microcontrollers may include analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) for connecting to analog chips, such as temperature sensors. Digital-to-analog converters (DACs), on the other hand, allow the microcontroller to generate analog voltages to produce sound through analog devices.
