Large-scale integration (LSI) classification in digital ICs In integrated-circuit technology, “large-scale integration (LSI)” refers to chips that contain a mid-to-high count of interconnected devices but are below very large-scale integration (VLSI). Choose the component-count range that best matches the conventional definition of LSI.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 1,500, 15,000

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Digital integrated circuits are historically classified by the number of active devices (gates/transistors) fabricated on a single chip. These categories—SSI, MSI, LSI, and VLSI—help engineers discuss complexity, density, and typical application domains. The question asks specifically for the component-count range that is generally associated with large-scale integration (LSI).



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We use classic textbook-era ranges, acknowledging that modern chips often exceed VLSI by orders of magnitude.
  • “Components” refers to devices/gates on the IC, not passive external parts.
  • Goal: select the best-matching range among the provided options.


Concept / Approach:
Traditional benchmarks place SSI (small-scale integration) at roughly 1–10 gates, MSI (medium-scale) at about 10–100 or up to a few hundred, LSI (large-scale) from the low thousands up to the tens of thousands, and VLSI beyond that (hundreds of thousands to millions and more). While exact boundaries vary across sources, LSI is typically quoted as the “thousands to tens of thousands” region.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify typical LSI region: thousands to tens of thousands of devices.Compare with choices: 1,500–15,000 aligns closely with that conventional bracket.Check alternatives: 180–1,000 is too small (MSI). 180–1,500 straddles MSI/low LSI but is mostly below LSI. 15,000–150,000 extends well into VLSI territory for classic definitions.Hence, 1,500–15,000 is the best fit for LSI.


Verification / Alternative check:
Older digital logic texts frequently chart examples: MSI (counters, multiplexers), LSI (simple microcontrollers, larger memory arrays of the era), and VLSI (microprocessors, large memories). The thousands-to-tens-of-thousands rule-of-thumb matches the selected range.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

15,000–150,000: largely VLSI by traditional standards.180–1,000: this lies in MSI territory.180–1,500: still dominated by MSI; only its top end brushes low LSI.


Common Pitfalls:
Forgetting that modern densities dwarf historical categories; however, the question explicitly targets conventional definitions used in foundational courses.



Final Answer:
1,500, 15,000

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