Integrated circuits (ICs) are tiny electronic components that combine multiple circuits into a single chip. They are made from semiconductor materials, primarily silicon, and can perform various functions, such as amplification, signal processing, and data storage. ICs are essential in modern electronics, powering devices like computers, smartphones, and appliances.
The invention of integrated circuits in the 1950s revolutionized technology by allowing for smaller, more efficient devices. Jack Kilby and Robert Noyce are credited with developing the first ICs, which paved the way for the rapid advancement of electronics. Today, ICs are found in nearly every electronic device, making them a fundamental part of our daily lives.