VLSI Technology Impact on μP Interfaces

Abstract

Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) technology currently allows construction of integrated circuits with many thousands of gates operating at clock rates in the order of 100MHz. As VLSI components keep growing in complexity and performance, there is a natural trend away from assembling systems in a piece-meal fashion. Therefore, the microprocessor system designer has to consider more than just the processing element when choosing a microprocessor. He must also look at the processor, its peripheral chips, and other interfacing elements as they are affected by VLSI technology.