Core Viewpoint - The Intel 1103 chip was the first commercially successful DRAM chip, marking a significant advancement in semiconductor memory over magnetic core memory in terms of price, density, and logical compatibility [1][2]. Group 1: Historical Context - The Intel 1103 was launched in October 1970, aiming to match and surpass the performance and cost of magnetic core memory, which was prevalent at the time [1]. - By 1971, the 1103 became the best-selling semiconductor memory chip globally, adopted by 14 out of 18 major computer manufacturers within two years [2]. Group 2: Technical Specifications - The 1103 chip encapsulated 1024 bits of data in an 18-pin dual in-line package, utilizing p-MOS technology with an 8-micron silicon gate process [4]. - It featured a 32×32 bit internal array, requiring a refresh of all memory every 2 milliseconds, with many designers employing burst refresh strategies [6]. Group 3: Market Impact and Adoption - Despite its technical limitations, the economic advantages of the 1103 led to its widespread adoption, with major systems like HP's 9800 series and DEC's PDP-11 utilizing it as primary memory [10]. - The introduction of the 1103A variant improved timing margins and reduced power consumption, further facilitating its integration into various systems [10]. Group 4: Legacy and Influence - The Intel 1103 established a foundation for future DRAM technologies, paving the way for single-transistor DRAM and influencing the development patterns of DRAM that persist today [13]. - It serves as a reminder that disruptive designs do not always need to be the most elegant, emphasizing the importance of system-level economics over transistor-level perfection [13].