With the rise of technology, it is extremely easy to forget, and turn a blind eye to the hardware components of computers and phones. Often, things like screen size, charging cables, speakers, and cameras are considered but extremely significant and crucial factors such as semiconductors are overlooked. As a matter of fact, many of you reading this article may not be aware of what semiconductors even are. However, it is on the very chips made of semiconductors that many of the world’s most advanced technologies run upon.
Let's start with the most basic and simple question, what exactly is a semiconductor?
[1]A semiconductor is a silicon-based material that conducts electricity better than an insulator like glass but not as well as a pure conductor like copper or aluminum. The introduction of impurities, known as doping, can change their conductivity and other properties to match the unique needs of the electronic component in which they live.
[2]This might seem extremely confusing and complicated, but in layman’s terms, these are materials that conduct electricity under some conditions but not others. This makes them ideal for a situation where they need to turn on and off very quickly in response to electrical signals from other components inside computers.
This enables them to operate as switches or gateways for electrons flowing through circuits within the processor chip of your computer (CPU). Your CPU will be able to do more computations per second (CPS) if these switches can be turned on and off quickly.
Now let me tell you the reasons why these semiconductors are so important.
Computing – Semiconductors are used to make microchips used in computers. These semiconductors direct commands of the user in the form of binary code to the respective receivers which perform the action.
These commands can be in the form of inputs from buttons.
Telecommunication
Semiconductors for telecommunications work on the same principle: they regulate machine functions. The distinction lies in the sorts of chips used and the purposes for which they are used. Their design, on the other hand, varies from gadget to device.
The semiconductor chips in a smartphone have an impact on the display, navigation, battery life, and 4G reception, among other things. Even snapping images and utilizing various apps uses one or more chips.
Appliances for the Home
Semiconductors power refrigerators, microwaves, washing machines, air conditioners, and other appliances in the home and business. Temperatures, timers, and automated features are all controlled by different chips.
Our homes are already crammed with appliances that make daily tasks easier, and smart technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) will just add to that. As a result, semiconductor chips are constantly evolving to meet increased expectations, which include quick, versatile, and long-lasting services.
Banking
It's simpler to see how semiconductors benefit various aspects of our high-tech world if you understand what they can do. Banks are huge investors, particularly in the greatest microchips on the market.
Using an ATM with a Bank Card
Computers and financial systems are essential for online communication, digital accounting, cloud platforms, and other functions. However, semiconductors are required by banks for ATMs, security cameras, and even automated locking systems.
It's also one of those cases where the more advanced the technology, the better. Semiconductor chips can assist banks in safeguarding your funds and personal information.
Healthcare
Advanced technology is used in the medical area. With the assistance of machines that operate with accuracy, complex and difficult surgeries are made safer. Monitors and pacemakers are also very popular. Video conferencing can also be used to communicate with patients and diagnose problems.
And without semiconductor chips directing power, sensors, temperatures, pressures, calculations, and a variety of other activities, none of this equipment can do its job properly. Medical device parts are designed with great care, just as they are for security, to ensure that they do not cause malfunction.
The most visible application of semiconductor technology is in healthcare. They enhance our quality of life while also protecting it.
Conclusion
Semiconductors and the fine print are often overlooked, however, it is these very components that make or break a piece of technology.
[1]Paraphrased from Investopedia.com ‘https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/semiconductor.asp’
[2]Paraphrased from Ctesolutions.com
Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay