Voltage inside an semiconductor chip?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on how integrated circuits (ICs) can function effectively when supplied with 5 volts despite their small size, measured in nanometers. It highlights that voltage is an "across" quantity, and the thickness of semiconductor junctions allows them to withstand this voltage without overheating. Current, typically in the milliampere range, is crucial as it results in lower current density and charge flux. Factors such as breakdown conditions in transistors and limits on gate potential in CMOS circuits also play significant roles in managing voltage levels. Overall, advancements in circuit design allow for efficient operation at lower voltages and currents, exemplified by devices like watches that utilize minimal power.
shankar
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i have a basic question about IC

we give 5 volt in general into an IC but the size of the IC is in nano measure if this 5 volt is given to such a small area the volt/area will become very large and how the IC still functions without burning.

let me know how this happens .
 
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shankar said:
i have a basic question about IC

we give 5 volt in general into an IC but the size of the IC is in nano measure if this 5 volt is given to such a small area the volt/area will become very large and how the IC still functions without burning.

let me know how this happens .

Voltage is the "across" quantity, so the important thing is the thicknes of the semiconductor junction. It doesn't need to be very thick to withstand 5 volts. The "through" quantity is current, which is usually in the miliampere range. So the current density ne charge flux is not that great.
 
ya you are right but how to justify the voltage factor. As you said, yes it is across factor but till we nned to justify voltage if not volt/area. howto do it.
 
chip voltages

There are several factors determining voltage -- but not area --
in cases where normal transistors are used there are breakdown conditions to think of since some junctions are reverse biassed and they are not very thick.
In Cmos circuits there are limits to the gate potental before 'punch through'
of the gate.
But there is also a question of circuit speed and power, in digital circuits such as CMOS the internal voltages are switched from rail to rail if this voltage is smaller and for given drive conditions ( size and doping defined ) the transit times of the nodes can be shorter and dissipation reduced.
Watches are a good example employing thousands of transisitors with voltages as low a 1 volt and currents < 1 microAmp, but the clock is only
a few 10's of kilohertz.
 
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