Which technology allowed computers to become more compact and efficient?

The technology that allowed computers to become more compact and efficient is integrated circuits. Integrated circuits consolidate a large number of tiny components such as transistors, resistors, and capacitors onto a single chip of silicon. This miniaturization not only reduces the physical size of components but also enhances the performance of computers by allowing for faster processing speeds and lower power consumption.

Before the advent of integrated circuits, computers relied on larger, bulkier components such as vacuum tubes, which were not only larger but also less reliable and more power-hungry. The introduction of integrated circuits marked a significant turning point in computer engineering, leading to the development of smaller and more powerful computers that could perform complex calculations at high speeds. This innovation has been fundamental in the evolution of modern computing, paving the way for the personal computer revolution and the widespread use of technology in everyday life.