Gated array classification: Complete the sentence — “Gated arrays are ________ integrated circuits that offer hundreds of thousands of gates.”

Introduction / Context:
ASIC taxonomy often references integration scale: SSI, MSI, LSI, VLSI, and ULSI. Gated arrays (a form of semi-custom ASIC) are typically built at densities corresponding to Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI), historically hundreds of thousands of gates, and beyond with modern processes.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• “Hundreds of thousands of gates” aligns historically with VLSI.
• Gated arrays use prefabricated transistor arrays customized by metal layers.
• We classify by scale, not design style (full custom vs. semi-custom).

Concept / Approach:
LSI generally refers to thousands to tens of thousands of gates. VLSI covers hundreds of thousands to millions. ULSI is used for even higher integration. Since the prompt specifies “hundreds of thousands,” VLSI is the best fit.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Classic textbooks and vendor literature classify gate-array densities in VLSI ranges, though absolute numbers have grown with process nodes.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Full custom: A design style, not a scale category.
• LSI: Typically too small per the given gate count.
• ULSI: Exceeds the described order of magnitude.
• SSI: Far below the described density.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing design style with scale; using modern multi-million-gate figures without noting historical terminology; assuming “gate count” equals performance.

Final Answer:
VLSI