Little grains of sand

Abstract

A description is given of the use of silicon as a semiconductor material followed by the development and operation of the transistor and the principle of the integrated circuit is then explained. Active semiconductor devices are able to replace the thermionic valves of earlier electronic circuitry, and the effects of the new technology, especially on computers, is discussed. The use of microelectronics, especially in the form of small computing circuits or microprocessors, is having far reaching effects on control engineering, communication, information handling, word processing etc., and a convergence area of these aspects of engineering can be defined. The main impact of microelectronics on communication is in the increasing use of digital techniques. In an examination of the future implications of microelectronics, wide applications are foreseen that will affect all aspects of modern life. The microprocessor will enable office and management staff to have cheap but adequate computer support, which has not formerly been generally possible. The advent of the microprocessor can be related to the possible existence of a fourth Kondratiev long wave in the fluctuations of the world's economy. The microprocessor should be welcomed as a new tool and a source of inspiration, leading to opportunities for expansion in engineering achievement. Education and industry have important and interacting parts to play in economic survival of the microprocessor revolution. A strong lead from Government is also required, with sufficient professionalism and competence to recognise areas needing urgent support. There is a requirement, in industry, for long term investment. The special role of electrical engineers in the urgent task of widening understanding of microelectronics is emphasised.