A system-on-chip (SoC) is generally defined as an Integrated Circuit (IC) that is designed, or customized, for a specific application. SoCs are typically used in embedded systems where the microprocessor core, associated memory, and custom peripheral set are integrated together on a single silicon substrate.

To best understand how SoC technology can be applied to the automotive industry, it is beneficial to review how a similar technology (Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)) has been used to build custom ICs for automotive applications.

Reprinted in its entirety from ARM IQ Vol. 1, No. 1