1 minEconomic Concept
Economic Concept

Semiconductors

What is Semiconductors?

Semiconductors, also known as integrated circuits (ICs) or microchips, are essential components of modern electronic devices. They are materials with electrical conductivity between conductors and insulators, enabling them to control the flow of electricity.

Historical Background

The development of semiconductors revolutionized the electronics industry in the 20th century. The invention of the transistor in 1947 paved the way for smaller, faster, and more efficient electronic devices. Today, semiconductors are ubiquitous in almost every aspect of modern life.

Key Points

8 points
  • 1.

    Made from materials like silicon, germanium, and gallium arsenide

  • 2.

    Used in a wide range of applications, including computers, smartphones, automobiles, and medical devices

  • 3.

    Manufacturing process is complex and requires specialized equipment and expertise

  • 4.

    Global semiconductor industry is highly concentrated, with a few key players dominating the market

  • 5.

    Supply chain disruptions can have significant impacts on various industries

  • 6.

    Countries are investing heavily in developing domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities

  • 7.

    Geopolitical competition for semiconductor technology is increasing

  • 8.

    India is aiming to become a major hub for semiconductor design and manufacturing

Visual Insights

Understanding Semiconductors

Mind map illustrating the key aspects of semiconductors, including materials, applications, and manufacturing.

Semiconductors

  • Materials
  • Applications
  • Manufacturing
  • Geopolitics

Recent Developments

5 developments

India's launch of the Semiconductor Mission to promote domestic semiconductor manufacturing

Incentives and subsidies offered to attract semiconductor companies to invest in India

Partnerships with countries like the US, Japan, and Taiwan to develop semiconductor ecosystems

Efforts to develop a skilled workforce for the semiconductor industry

Geopolitical tensions impacting the global semiconductor supply chain

Source Topic

Pax Silica: India's opportunity to secure tech supply chains

Economy

UPSC Relevance

Important for UPSC GS Paper 3 (Science and Technology, Economic Development). Questions are asked on the significance of semiconductors, their manufacturing process, and India's efforts to become a semiconductor hub.

Understanding Semiconductors

Mind map illustrating the key aspects of semiconductors, including materials, applications, and manufacturing.

Semiconductors

Silicon

Gallium Arsenide

Automobiles

Medical Devices

Packaging

Testing

Supply Chain Security

Strategic Importance