When Chipworks IC analysts first discovered this tiny but accurate map of Scotland on the corner of a very popular stereo audio codec (8 kHz to 96 kHz), they were puzzled why the Texas-based company would have put it there. One could speculate that since IC design has become a global sport, it could well have its origins in the land of haggis, single malt, and iron bridges especially when you consider that audio designs are one of the specialties that Scotland's Silicon Glen is renowned for. This, and the fact that the chip's manufacturer of record was an early investor in a Scottish IC firm that's also noted for its audio components, may help clear up the mystery of this month's chip art -- especially as the part number below the map is an early sequence for that vendor.
Then again, this fine example of micro-geography may simply be the result of a Texas-based Scot's expression of pride in his homeland.
Any clues on how this month's chip art came to be? Write us at: lgoldberg@green-electronics.com