15nm

15nm refers to a semiconductor manufacturing process node, indicating the nominal size of the smallest feature that can be reliably produced on a silicon wafer. This dimension is typically associated with the half-pitch of critical metal layers or the gate length of transistors. The 15nm node represents a significant advancement in semiconductor technology, allowing for smaller, more power-efficient, and higher-performing integrated circuits.

The development of smaller process nodes like 15nm is driven by the continuous pursuit of Moore's Law, which historically predicted a doubling of transistors on a chip roughly every two years. Achieving such small dimensions requires sophisticated lithography techniques, such as extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography, and advanced materials to overcome physical limitations and maintain electrical performance. At the 15nm scale, transistors become smaller and closer together, enabling higher transistor density per unit area.

Chips manufactured at the 15nm node are used in a wide range of electronic devices, including high-end smartphones, advanced computing processors, and specialized AI accelerators. The increased density and efficiency translate to longer battery life, improved processing speeds, and reduced heat generation in these devices. However, the manufacturing process for such nodes is extremely complex and expensive, requiring massive investments in research and development and state-of-the-art fabrication facilities.