Semiconductor technologies and semiconductor memories

Abstract

In this article, we discuss the semiconductor techno logies from which microprocessors are constructed and the semiconductor memories with which microprocessors are commonly used. We will discuss the characteristics of the technologies and memories from the user's point of view and will not discuss either the inner workings or the manufacturing techniques involved. We will describe the standard logic families, the technologies used in microprocessors, and the interfacing of micro processors and devices from the standard logic families. We will then consider the types of semi conductor memories and how they are used with micro processors. We will also briefly discuss future trends in both semiconductor technologies and semicon ductor memories.