Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)
By CoinGecko | Updated on Mar 03, 2020
Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) refers to computer equipment which are specialized for a specific use, rather than general use. An example of ASIC would be Bitcoin mining machines that are made to solve the SHA-256 algorithm repeatedly and in orders of magnitude quicker than general use hardwares (eg. graphic cards).
Initially developed only for the Bitcoin algorithm, the development, sale and usage of ASIC quickly became a lucrative industry as it expanded to cover many other cryptocurrencies.
It is worth noting that ASICs are not used only in the crypto scene - appliances that are made to do specific functions can also be equipped with ASIC chips for efficiency purposes.
Related Terms
Sharding
A form of database partitioning which breaks up data into smaller segments.
Cold Storage
Offline storage of cryptocurrencies which is arguably safer as they also require physical access (eg. hardware wallet, paper wallets)
IYKYK
Abbreviation for: if you know you know. The phrase implies that the user has dropped some sort of insider knowledge about a specific experience. Often, the post will have some callback to a particular experience that will instantly stand out to those who are “in the know,” or ironically sharing commonly known information.
Leverage
It is an investment strategy to gain potential return of the investment by borrowing the money
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