A microchip is a small semiconductor used to transmit information through specific electrical characteristics. In some cases, the term can be used interchangeably with integrated circuit. The microchip is at the heart of many electronic devices, including computers, cell phones, and even microwave ovens.
Microchips are semiconductor integrated circuits that perform information processing tasks in most computers.
The first microchip is jointly credited to Robert Noyce and Jack Kilby in 1958. Although they both worked for different companies and came to the invention from slightly different angles, the two companies decided that they both had part of the overall answer and decided to license their inventions to create a unified technology. After being demonstrated in 1958, it first became commercially available in 1961.
Robert Noyce patented the first printed integrated circuit in 1958.
The technology was basic by modern standards. The first chip contained a transistor, three resistors, and a capacitor; modern ones often contain millions of transistors in a space smaller than a penny on the dollar. The advent of ever smaller semiconductor chips has brought several other benefits. In addition to being used in electronic devices, they can also be inserted into biological organisms.
Microchips are used to locate lost dogs and other animals.
The microchip was even considered an invention that is used to save lives. Pacemakers use them to maintain rhythm so they can effectively control the heart. The mechanical hearts themselves use pacemakers to fully take over the function of a biological heart.
Veterinarians can microchip pets to make them easier to find if lost.
As the cost of biology-focused microchip applications has decreased, the number of uses has increased. For example, many pet owners now insert them into their pets; If the animal gets lost and is taken to an animal shelter or veterinary clinic, one of the first things the staff usually does is scan the animal to see if it has a microchip. The chip will reveal the owner’s name and contact information.
Similarly, some people have had microchips inserted. If they ever become incapacitated and need to be taken to the hospital, they already carry their entire medical history inside their body. They can be easily scanned and the information downloaded so that medical professionals can make the most appropriate decisions possible. In the future, it is envisioned that people will be able to implant these devices that will take care of many of their daily tasks. Cars can be started when the owner approaches, or house doors can be unlocked only for those who have chips programmed with the key.
Some animals are microchipped in case they escape.
