What does Altera mean? Altera is a term that carries significant meaning in the context of technology and computing. It refers to a company that has played a pivotal role in the development of programmable logic devices (PLDs) and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). Established in 1983, Altera has been at the forefront of innovation, providing solutions that have revolutionized the way engineers design and implement electronic systems.
Altera’s products have found applications in a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, consumer electronics, and telecommunications. Their FPGAs, in particular, have become indispensable tools for engineers seeking to create custom hardware solutions with high-speed, low-power, and low-cost advantages. In this article, we will delve into the history, products, and impact of Altera, and explore what the term “Altera” signifies in the world of technology.
The origins of Altera can be traced back to the early 1980s when the semiconductor industry was rapidly evolving. In 1983, three Stanford University alumni—John Daane, John Dunlop, and David Greenlaugh—founded LSI Logic Corporation. However, in 1984, they left LSI Logic to start their own company, which they named Altera Corporation. The name “Altera” is derived from the Latin word “alterare,” which means “to change” or “to alter.” This reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and its focus on providing versatile solutions that can be adapted to meet the changing needs of its customers.
Over the years, Altera has developed a strong reputation for its cutting-edge products and customer-centric approach. One of their most notable contributions to the industry is the introduction of the MAX series of PLDs, which were the first programmable logic devices to use CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) technology. This marked a significant shift from the older TTL (transistor-transistor logic) technology, as CMOS offered lower power consumption, higher speed, and smaller size.
As the technology landscape continued to evolve, Altera expanded its product portfolio to include FPGAs. FPGAs are highly flexible and customizable integrated circuits that can be reprogrammed to perform specific functions. This versatility makes them ideal for prototyping, testing, and development of complex electronic systems. Altera’s FPGAs have become a popular choice among engineers due to their high performance, low power consumption, and extensive feature set.
In 2015, Altera was acquired by Intel Corporation, marking a significant milestone in the company’s history. The acquisition brought together two industry leaders, combining Altera’s expertise in FPGAs with Intel’s vast resources and technological capabilities. This partnership has allowed for further innovation and has positioned the combined company as a dominant force in the semiconductor industry.
The term “Altera” now represents more than just a company; it symbolizes a legacy of innovation, dedication to customer satisfaction, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology. As the world continues to rely on advanced electronic systems, the impact of Altera’s contributions to the industry will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
In conclusion, what does Altera mean? Altera is a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of adaptability in the ever-evolving world of technology. Through its history of groundbreaking products and strategic partnerships, Altera has earned its place as a leader in the semiconductor industry, and the term “Altera” will continue to resonate with engineers and technology enthusiasts alike.
