multi-chip computer

[/ˈmʌlti tʃɪp kəmˈpjuːtər/]
nounmasculinepl: multi-chip computers
computador multi-chip
1. A computer system composed of multiple integrated circuits (chips) working together to perform computational tasks, rather than using a single processor chip
The early mainframe computers were multi-chip computers with separate chips for processing, memory, and input/output operations.
Os primeiros computadores mainframe eram computadores multi-chip com chips separados para processamento, memória e operações de entrada/saída.
2. A computing architecture where different functional units are implemented on separate semiconductor chips that communicate with each other
This multi-chip computer design allowed manufacturers to upgrade individual components without replacing the entire system.
Este design de computador multi-chip permitiu aos fabricantes atualizar componentes individuais sem substituir todo o sistema.
This term is primarily used in technical and historical computing contexts. It represents an important evolutionary stage in computer design history, particularly relevant when discussing mainframe computers and early microcomputer development from the 1960s-1980s. In modern contexts, the term has become less common as single-chip System-on-Chip (SoC) solutions have become dominant, though multi-chip designs persist in high-performance systems.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
multi-processor computerdistributed chip architecturemulti-component computer systemchipset-based computer
Antonyms / Antônimos
single-chip computermonolithic processorsystem-on-chip (SoC)

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
computador multi-chip
Standard technical term used in computing education and industry
Portugal
computador multi-chip
Same terminology used in Portuguese technical documentation
USA/Technical English
multi-chip computer
Primarily historical term, more common in discussions of vintage computing architecture

Related Words

integrated circuitmicroprocessorchipsetcomputer architecturesemiconductorcircuit boardmotherboard

Related Idioms & Phrases

break down into multi-chip architecture
distribute processing across multiple chips
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