Hardware How to Make a CPU: From Sand to Shelf

We’re pretty sure that most computer enthusiasts are aware that CPUs are made from silicon. Far fewer are likely to realize exactly how much work goes into making what is effectively a wonder of the modern world. Processors are made on a mind bogglingly small scale to withstand huge tolerances, with even the cheapest chips requiring hundreds of manufacturing stages to get from wafer to motherboard...

http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/cpus/2010/06/10/how-to-make-a-cpu-from-sand-to-shelf/1

 

Brilliant, brilliant article.

 

Clearly and expertly explained. It should be made available to schools and other learning centres as an example on how science should be taught

 

The picture are really good

 

This.

 

How can I do anything but agree, my favourite article of the year.

Actually, have just posted a link to it on our facebook page:
http://www.facebook.com/CCLOnline

Educate the world, one article at a time!

 

great article and cg work!

 

Thank's a lot for this clever article who taught me a lot.

 

This is great! The accompanying graphics were also very good.

 

I liked it, but it glossed over the point I was hoping it would answer, which is how do you actually build those 30 layers of interconnects between the transistors?

 

Loved the article. Mentioned lots of things I already knew, but summarised it in an article that I'd ALMOST show my mother, and try to make her understand.
I say almost, because I still can't get my motherdearest to understand that memorysticks can only go into one type of port on the PC.

 

Great article but I've read a very similar article with the same pics in a Dutch hardware magazine a while ago. So I guess it's from Intel hehe.

 

You said it.

This understatement is an understatement

 

Now that was a fantastic read. Thank you.

 

How much actual sand is required to build one CPU?

 

If the sand was 100% silicon dioxide pure then probably a little over 2 times the weight of the CPU in sand

 

what i find even more amazing is that the majority of this has occurred in the last 70 years

 

Just think what will be possible in the next 70. Just hope I get to experience it

 

I was going to say half a sandcastle, but yeah, that sounds right

 

Your best technology article to date. Really good read. Now, how to mod a processor....