Which statement correctly describes IDM as opposed to fabless?

Which statement correctly describes IDM as opposed to fabless?

• A. IDM performs multiple stages including both design and fabrication.
• B. IDM designs chips but outsources fabrication.
• C. IDM only fabrics chips.
• D. IDM is a services company outside semiconductors.

Answer: (A)

The key idea is end-to-end control: an IDM integrates both design and manufacturing under one roof, handling multiple stages from architecture and circuit design through physical design, fabrication, and testing. This in-house, multi-stage capability defines IDM, distinguishing it from fabless companies that focus on design and outsource fabrication to foundries. Therefore, describing IDM as performing multiple stages including both design and fabrication captures its integrated nature. The other descriptions miss this by suggesting outsourcing fabrication, limiting IDM to fabrication only, or misclassifying it as a services company outside semiconductors.

The key idea is end-to-end control: an IDM integrates both design and manufacturing under one roof, handling multiple stages from architecture and circuit design through physical design, fabrication, and testing. This in-house, multi-stage capability defines IDM, distinguishing it from fabless companies that focus on design and outsource fabrication to foundries. Therefore, describing IDM as performing multiple stages including both design and fabrication captures its integrated nature. The other descriptions miss this by suggesting outsourcing fabrication, limiting IDM to fabrication only, or misclassifying it as a services company outside semiconductors.