CHIPS: The journey of the integrated circuit
The project CHIPS: The journey of the integrated circuit is led by IMB-CNM-CSIC in collaboration with the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT) · Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities.
We are surrounded by elements based on semiconductor materials that have provided us with the highest level of well-being in history. From the moment we wake up until we go to sleep, we are surrounded by electronic devices. However, the general public knows little about what is inside their cell phone, washing machine, car, or hearing aid. So, even though integrated circuits or chips are all around us, the technology that makes them possible is largely unknown. That is why the Institute of Microelectronics of Barcelona (IMB-CNM-CSIC) is proposing educational materials on semiconductor technology for use in schools, cultural centers, and relevant outreach events, in order to promote knowledge about microelectronics and chips.
Within this framework, CHIPS: The journey of the integrated circuit (reference: FCT-23-19658) aims, on the one hand, to reach the youngest ages in education, stimulating their curiosity about microelectronics and trying to awaken scientific vocations among the youngest audience, as there is a shortage of trained personnel in this field. On the other hand, this initiative also aims to reach the general public and, in particular, older people, in order to mitigate the current technology knowledge gap that exists in these groups.
The general objectives of the initiative are to stimulate citizen participation in science and technology, promote knowledge in the areas of micro and nanoelectronic technologies, and promote changes in the attitudes of younger audiences, especially by encouraging the creation of scientific vocations, and of older people, by promoting their technological literacy.
The journey of the integrated circuit
How is a chip designed?
How is a chip manufactured? Where do we start? Design is where it all begins; it is the first stage and the basis of the entire manufacturing process. This is where the requirements and specifications that will guide the process are defined: what should the chip do? What is it for? We tell you everything you need to know about schematics, layout, and analog or digital circuits. Discover how the journey of microelectronics begins and why the design is a crucial step for the technology we use in our everyday lives.
What is semiconductor doping and how does it work?
Doping is a fundamental process in chip manufacturing where we introduce dopant impurities into the semiconductor to modify the electrical properties in specific areas. But how? In this video, you'll see what this stage involves, understand why it's necessary to dope silicon, differentiate between p-type and n-type semiconductors, and see how ion implantation and thermal doping work.
How does photolithography work?
Photolithography is a fundamental process in semiconductor manufacturing. The video explains the steps followed in basic photolithography and what the transfer of the pattern to the wafer surface consists of... we tell you everything you need to know about masks, resist or alignment! Give it a 'like' if you like it and, if you have any questions, write to us in the comments.
What is a chip?
Informative infographic on integrated circuits, their applications, and the processes required for their manufacture. From how we move and communicate to how we take care of our health, electronics are present in all areas of our lives. At the heart of this technological revolution is a small semiconductor device that makes it all possible: the integrated circuit, also known as a chip.
Infographics adapted to different audiences
In order to facilitate understanding and access to information, four versions of this infographic have been developed, designed for different reading levels and audiences:
- Elementary school (9–12 years old)
- High School (up to 16 years old)
- Adult audience
- Easy Read (ER)
However, these materials are only available in Spanish and Catalan. We recommend selecting the most appropriate version based on the target audience and their comprehension needs.
Easy Read Version
The Easy Read adaptation (Lectura Fácil) has been produced in collaboration with the Associació Lectura Fàcil and is aimed at people with reading difficulties, whether temporary or permanent. Easy Read facilitates access to information, promotes inclusion, and guarantees the right to understand. More than 30% of the population has reading difficulties, making the adaptation of content a social necessity. This right is recognized by the Accessibility Act passed by the Parliament of Catalonia in 2014.
