DRAMs are used in a computer's main memory to temporarily store data retrieved from low-cost external mass memory devices such as hard disk drives. SRAMs are principally used as caches and buffers between a computer's microprocessor and its DRAM-based main memory. Nonvolatile memories are typically used to store program instructions that control the operation of microprocessors and electronic systems. Logic Devices Logic devices process digital data to control the operation of electronic systems. The largest segment of the logic market, standard logic devices, includes microprocessors, microcontrollers, and digital signal processors.
Microprocessors are the central processing units of computer systems.
Microcontrollers are complete computer systems contained on single integrated circuits that are programmed to specific customer requirements. They contain microprocessor cores as well as logic circuitry and memory capacity. Standard devices are intended to be utilized by a large group of systems designers for a broad range of applications. Consequently, standard devices usually contain more functions than are actually required and, therefore, may not be cost-effective for certain applications. In addition to standard logic devices, a broad range of full-custom, semicustom, and ASSP logic devices is developed for a variety of applications.