Are dual core processors still considered one Integrated Circuit?

[Alkesh]

I know that dual processors wouldn't be a single IC but what about dual core processors?

 

[Aluvus]

If they are integrated onto the same die, sure. If they are implemented as multiple dice in the same package (such as Intel's Core 2 Quad Kentsfield and Pentium D Presler), I suppose you could argue otherwise. But in the sense most people use the term, anything integrated into one package would qualify as an integrated circuit.

 

[Idontcare]

Definition of Integrated Circuit

In the traditional application of the definition "Integrated Circuit" it would appear that any monolithic chip is an integrated circuit regardless the functionality incorporated onto said monolithic chip (dual-core, quad-core, single-core + memory controller, etc).

Packages incorporating more than one monolithic chip (two individual chips wired together, Pentium Pro w/ cache, Kentsfield, etc) are not considered to be a single integrated circuit.

 

[zephyrprime]

I believe that integrated circuits have been allowed to have multiple circuits from just about the beginning.

 

[Diogenes2]

I like the WIKI def..

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Integrated_circuit

It depends if you are talking about a monolithic IC, like a RAM chip, or hybrid IC which contains more than one chip and other components contained in a single package.

Most modern CPUs are hybrid ICs.. Something like the 386 or Z80 would be considered a monolithic IC ..