为何都盯上了ASIC？

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the advantages of custom Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) over off-the-shelf integrated circuits (ICs), highlighting how ASICs can provide differentiation, optimize power efficiency, and reduce costs in electronic system design [3][4][11]. Summary by Sections Off-the-Shelf ICs - Off-the-shelf ICs offer convenience for electronic system designers but limit differentiation in critical metrics such as power efficiency, functionality, and size [3]. - The use of evaluation boards based on standard ICs can lead to converging functionalities, making it challenging for designers to optimize for specific applications [3]. Custom ASICs - Custom ASICs allow for comprehensive system optimization, enabling significant improvements in data throughput and energy efficiency, particularly for applications like machine vision [5]. - ASICs provide a strong barrier against intellectual property theft, making reverse engineering more difficult compared to standard ICs [5][6]. Comparison Criteria - A comparison between standard ICs and mature-node ASICs reveals that ASICs offer high differentiation, optimized power efficiency, smaller bill of materials (BOM), and better supply chain stability [7]. - While standard ICs have lower upfront costs, ASICs incur higher non-recurring engineering (NRE) costs but lower per-unit costs at scale [7]. Design Flexibility - Custom ASICs do not need to encompass all design features, allowing for targeted enhancements that reduce manufacturing complexity and BOM size [8]. - The use of mature CMOS nodes (e.g., 180 nm and 130 nm) for ASICs meets performance needs without the high costs associated with advanced nodes [9]. Competitive Advantage - In a market where commercial chips erode profits and brand uniqueness, mature-node ASICs provide a transformative leverage point, allowing companies to focus on their critical intellectual property and achieve differentiation that off-the-shelf components cannot [11]. Strategic Questions - The article poses strategic questions regarding the unique functionalities that can be achieved through ASICs and the potential for risk and cost reduction by integrating discrete components into a single ASIC [16].