Question

The disadvantage of the integrated circuit technology as compared with discrete components interconnected is

• A. Low cost
• B. Small size
• C. Improved performance
• D. Low reliability

Hint:

Advantages of ICs: Small size, low cost (mass production), high speed, low power consumption, improved reliability (fewer connections).
Potential Disadvantages of ICs: Non-repairable (component level), can be sensitive to ESD, high initial design/fabrication cost for custom ICs, heat dissipation can be challenging for high-density ICs.
The option "Low reliability" is generally not true as an overall comparison, but could refer to non-repairability of a failed IC.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Let's analyze the options in terms of advantages/disadvantages of Integrated Circuits (ICs) compared to discrete component circuits: (a) Low cost: ICs, especially for complex circuits and mass production, generally have a much lower cost per function than circuits built from discrete components. This is an ADVANTAGE of ICs. (b) Small size: ICs allow for extremely high component density, leading to significantly smaller circuit sizes. This is an ADVANTAGE of ICs. (c) Improved performance: ICs can offer improved performance due to shorter interconnections (reducing parasitic capacitance and inductance, allowing higher speeds) and better matching of components. This is an ADVANTAGE of ICs. (d) Low reliability: This statement is generally FALSE. ICs typically offer higher reliability compared to circuits made from many discrete components. Fewer solder joints and interconnections in ICs reduce potential points of failure. So, "Low reliability" would be a disadvantage if true, but ICs are known for *high* reliability. The question asks for a DISADVANTAGE of IC technology. Options (a), (b), (c) are all well-known ADVANTAGES of ICs. Therefore, if there is a disadvantage among these, it must be related to how "low reliability" is interpreted. However, it is a common understanding that ICs offer *increased* reliability. Perhaps the question is poorly phrased, or "low reliability" refers to specific failure modes unique to ICs (like susceptibility to electrostatic discharge) or the inability to repair an IC (one faulty component means the whole IC is bad). But compared to overall system reliability with discrete parts, ICs are better. If we must choose a disadvantage from the options, and options a, b, c are clear advantages, then (d) must be the intended answer, even if it contradicts general knowledge. Let's consider contexts where ICs might have perceived reliability issues as a "disadvantage":
Repairability: If a single component within an IC fails, the entire IC usually needs to be replaced. Discrete circuits can often be repaired by replacing individual faulty components. In this sense, ICs are less "robust" to single point failures in terms of repair.
Specific Failure Modes/Sensitivities: ICs can be susceptible to issues like latch-up, ESD damage, or effects of radiation, which might be less of a concern or manageable differently with discrete components.
Obsolescence: Custom or specialized ICs can become obsolete, making repair or replacement of systems using them difficult. However, overall system reliability (MTBF - Mean Time Between Failures) is generally much higher for systems built with ICs than equivalent systems built with discrete components due to fewer interconnections. Given the options, (d) is presented as a disadvantage. In very specific contexts (like extreme environments or inability to repair), one might argue aspects of reliability as a concern, but "low reliability" as a general statement is incorrect. Since the other options are definitively advantages, option (d) is the one that stands out as a potential disadvantage, even if its general truth is debatable. The question asks for *a* disadvantage. Perhaps it refers to the fact that if an IC fails, you can't repair it, and the whole complex chip is gone, which can be perceived as a reliability issue in terms of system recovery. \[ \boxed{\text{Low reliability (interpreted as a consequence of non-repairability or specific failure modes)}} \]