Moore’s Law Stays: Intel Introduces New “TriGate” 3D Transistors On Ivy Bridge Processors

Intel has in a landmark announcement, introduced a major breakthrough in microprocessor technology. The technology, called “Tri-Gate” is what Intel calls the first 3-D transistors. What is notable about Tri Gate is that it will help sustain the Moore’s Law which many had said was not sustainable in the long run. According to Intel, with Tri-Gate, the future of Moore’s Law remains safe for the years to come. If you are not sure what this Moore’s Law is all about, let us give a brief explanation. This is a forecast made back in the 60’s that said that transistor density would double every two years.
Tri-gate technology will first the first time involve the use of transistors with a three-dimensional structure. Tri Gate was under development long time back since 2002. Until now, transistor technology used a planar, two dimensional structure and has been in use on almost all devices that you now see. Intel claims that by reinventing the transistor, you can expect groundbreaking devices in the near future.

What to expect from Intel’s 3-D Tri-Gate transistors? Well, to start with these transistors would enable chips to perform at a lower voltage, effectively decreasing power consumption. These transistors are based on 22nm technology and is said to offer almost 37% performance increase over Intel’s latest 32nm planar transistors. Thanks to its size, this chip would also be useful on small handheld devices.

Planar VS 3D

To explain how these transistors work, Intel cites the example of skyscrapers and urban planners. Just like with skyscrapers, 3D transistors lets chip designers buld “upwards” This allows more transistors to be packed closer together – unlike in the case of the planar model where they took more surface area.

Intel also demoed the Ivy Bridge 22nm processor codenamed the Ivy Bridge. These processors are based on the 3-D Tri-Gate transistors and would be available on mainstream devices by the end of this year.