IBM bragged about creating the world’s smallest computer back in March, which measured smaller than a grain of salt. The University of Michigan is challenging that claim with an entry of their own that measures just 0.33mm on each side. While these include traditional components such as RAM and processors, some intellectuals question whether they can truly be classified as computers, as they lose programming and data as soon as they lose power.



One of the big challenges in making a computer about 1/10th the size of IBM’s was how to run at very low power when the system packaging had to be transparent. The light from the base station — and from the device’s own transmission LED — can induce currents in its tiny circuits. “We basically had to invent new ways of approaching circuit design that would be equally low power but could also tolerate light,” Blaauw said.

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Source: [H]ardOCP – U-M Researchers Create World’s Smallest “Computer”