High-speed interconnects: History, evolution, and the road ahead

Abstract

An integrated circuit (IC), or chip, is a set of electronic circuits and components placed on a tiny planar silicon (Si) semiconductor substrate. These electronics circuits and components are electrically connected to one another with the help of planar and vertical conductor elements known as interconnects. This article presents a detailed overview of the evolution of interconnects, highlighting the technological milestones that have been achieved during the past four decades. Interconnects form the backbone of signal communication among devices on a chip and between chips on a printed circuit board (PCB). The layout and design of interconnects on an IC are vital to the chip's performance, functionality, reliability, efficiency, and overall fabrication yield.