Xerox Outlines Vision for Next Generation Computer Assembly

According to Xerox, a revolutionary new way to build computers is just on the horizon, offering the ability for unique computing devices to be cheaply produced according to individual customer needs. This production process involves a technique known as "xerographic micro-assembly" that breaks down conventional silicon chip designs into thousands of "chiplets," and then custom assembles them with an advanced 3D printer that uses microscopic electric fields to place each mote of silicon smart dust on a template.

It is still unknown as to whether the new Xerox machine will dispense a mixed semiconductor ink or different inks made of uniform components and whether fragility issues will make traditional interconnections impossible. Though there's no indication that this technology will be replacing circuit boards or chip boards at this time, it offers incredible promise for producing unique computing devices according to individual customer needs.

Contact Us for News Tips, Corrections and Feedback

Contributor

Tarun Iyer was a contributor for Tom's Hardware who wrote news covering a wide range of technology topics, including processors, graphics cards, cooling systems, and computer peripherals. He also covered tech trends such as the development of adaptive all-in-one PCs.

  • WyomingKnott
    Didn't I read this in the New York Times two days ago?
    Reply
  • lamorpa
    Interesting. Xerox is ... wait a minute Xerox??
    Reply
  • JOSHSKORN
    Give it time. Microsoft will steal another idea from Xerox. First the mouse, now this!
    Reply
  • natcparis
    @lamorpa same here. ...Xerox??
    Reply
  • sou_38130
    I find the idea very intersting actually!
    Reply
  • iam2thecrowe
    I see this existing as a patent only, and never really going into production. I mean, printers aren't reliable, how are these chiplets/interconnects going to be reliable, and how would they test each one?
    Reply