Page 16 - Semiconductor For Micro- and Nanotechnology An Introduction For Engineers
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Chapter 1 Introduction
Semiconductors have complex properties, and in the early years of the
twentieth century these were mainly discovered by physicists. Many of
these properties have been harnessed, and have been exploited in inge-
nious microelectronic devices. Over the years the devices have been ren-
dered manufacturable by engineers and technologists, and have spawned
off both a multi-billion € (or $, or ¥) international industry and a variety
of other industrial mini-revolutions including software, embedded sys-
tems, the internet and mobile communications. Semiconductors still lie at
the heart of this revolution, and silicon has remained its champion, ward-
ing off the competitors by its sheer abundance, suitability for manufac-
turing, and of course its tremendous head-start in the field. Silicon is the
working material of an exciting, competitive world, presenting a seem-
ingly endless potential for opportunities.
Chapter Goal The goal of this chapter is to introduce the reader to the field of semicon-
ductors, and to the purpose and organization of the book.
Semiconductors for Micro and Nanosystem Technology 15
