Hardware goes soft
Article Abstract:
New computer chips are making hardware more like software, developing an idea for reconfigurable hardware, developed by University of California's Gerald Estrin, which he proposed in 1960. These new hybrid microprocessors use a conventional processor that has reconfigurable circuitry, within one chip. A number of companies are developing reconfigurable chips to be used in mobile phones, TVs and other devices. Companies involved in this area include QuickSilver Technology, Morphics, and Chameleon Systems.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1999
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New chip on the block
Article Abstract:
The market for a chip that is both speedy and non-volatile could reach over 3 trillion Japanese yen by 2010, according to semiconductor producers in Japan. Such chips could be used in smart cards, cell phones and other portable devices. Ferroelectric random-access memory (FeRAM) devices are the closest approach to such a chip. There are two competing formats, PZT technology from Ramtron International, and Symetrix's design. There is a need for a unified approach to prevent a standards war.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1998
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Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious: chip design
Article Abstract:
Researchers are trying to design a new computer chip that can perform many tasks simultaneously through very long instruction word sets. The chip would use the software's compiler to separate tasks, and would simplify the computer language into 'on' and 'off' commands.
Publication Name: The Economist (UK)
Subject: Business, international
ISSN: 0013-0613
Year: 1995
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