Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)

Definition
An application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) is a circuit that is used for a particular application or
purpose. Its primary purpose is that it is designed to do one thing, and it does that thing very well as
compared to other logic devices or integrated circuits. Less electricity is used by it and can be made
smaller.

Where is it found?
An ASIC is found in electronic devices. Custom conversion of images to sound can be done through it.
They are customized, so the company that designed them can only use them; that is why they are
observed as unshared technology.

There are three different categories of ASICS; Full-Custom ASICs, Semi-Custom ASICs, and Platform
ASICs. One main advantage of ASIC is its small size; a single chip contains a large number of functional
units. There is a type of ASIC known as System on Chip that includes a 32-bit microprocessor, network
circuits, etc. Different levels of ASICs are developed with the advancement in technology. On the other
hand, you'll observe a disadvantage as well, and it is costly to design even for few units also.
From the above figure, we can see that how ASIC is designed. These steps are also known as ASIC
Design, and this flow chart will let us know step by step how it is intended.

Examples of ASIC chips are cellphone chips, Bitcoin Miner and voice recorders chips, etc.

ASICS are widely used in the field of the medical industry, automotive and sensors, modems, computers,
etc. In the medical field, they are used in hearing aids, etc. RFID is used for security purposes. For
temperature and voltage parameters, Engine Motor and Warning Light-Controller are used. ASIC
technology is expected at a low cost in the future.

Video source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cwPytnBSCKk

Reference: https://www.techopedia.com/definition/2357/application-specific-integrated-circuit-asic
https://www.mepits.com/tutorial/169/vlsi/application-specific-integrated-circuit

Image source: https://www.elprocus.com/wp-content/uploads/ASIC-Design-Floww.jpg