Integrated-circuit complexity classification: an IC containing roughly 100 to 10,000 equivalent logic gates per chip is categorized as:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: LSI

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Integrated circuits are traditionally grouped by their logic density. Knowing these categories helps interpret datasheets, historical literature, and system architecture discussions about scale and integration levels.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Gate-equivalent counts define categories.
  • We compare SSI, MSI, LSI, and VLSI.
  • Ranges are approximate and historically oriented.


Concept / Approach:
Common definitions: Small-Scale Integration (SSI) ≈ up to 10 gates, Medium-Scale (MSI) ≈ 10–100 gates, Large-Scale (LSI) ≈ 100–10,000 gates, and Very-Large-Scale (VLSI) > 10,000 gates. Modern SoCs far exceed VLSI, but the classical terms persist in education and cataloging.


Step-by-Step Reasoning:
Given the range 100 to 10,000 gates.Match with the standard taxonomy: this corresponds to LSI.Therefore, the correct classification is LSI.


Verification / Alternative check:
Typical MSI examples include 4-bit ALUs or counters; LSI historically covered early microcontrollers and larger memory arrays before the VLSI era expanded capacities dramatically.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • SSI: too small—few gates only.
  • MSI: generally 10–100 gates; below the specified range.
  • VLSI: typically more than 10,000 gates; above the specified range.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Assuming exact boundaries; they are conventional, not hard limits.
  • Confusing “gate count” with transistor count; different metrics can be quoted.


Final Answer:
LSI

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