This is a summary review of Moore’s Law containing key details about the book.

What is Moore’s Law About?

Moore’s Law by Arnold Thackray, David C. Brock, and Rachel Jones traces the history and impact of this fundamental principle of computing. (Full Summary…)

Moore’s Law Summary Review

“Moore’s Law: The Life of Gordon Moore, Silicon Valley’s Quiet Revolutionary” is a meticulously crafted exploration of the life and impact of Gordon Moore, an unsung hero of Silicon Valley whose revolutionary insights have shaped the course of modern technology. Authored by Arnold Thackray, David C. Brock, and Rachel Jones, the book offers an authoritative and insightful account of Moore’s life and his instrumental role in the development of Silicon Valley and transformative technologies.

The narrative begins with a detailed examination of the Moore family’s history, tracing their roots back to 1845 and shedding light on their journey to California, where Gordon Moore’s story unfolds. The authors provide a rich backdrop, revealing Moore’s early interest in chemistry sparked by a neighbor’s pyrotechnic lessons and how this passion led to his academic pursuits at Berkeley and Caltech.

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to Moore’s time with William Shockley, offering a compelling and detailed account of the inner workings of the Shockley Lab. This period is presented as one of the most intriguing phases of Moore’s career, shedding new light on the dynamics within the organization and the circumstances that led to his eventual departure.

The founding of Fairchild Semiconductor, the first successful silicon valley startup in the chip industry, is explored with depth, highlighting the challenges and rapid growth that defined this era. The authors delve into the intricacies of Moore’s collaboration with Robert Noyce and the factors that led to their exit from Fairchild. The book offers fresh perspectives on the internal dynamics of Intel, with a focus on the triumvirate of Moore, Noyce, and Andy Grove, providing readers with valuable insights into their roles and relationships.

Thackray, Brock, and Jones skillfully navigate the landscape of Intel’s rise from startup to juggernaut, detailing the struggles, successes, and strategic decisions that marked the company’s trajectory. The section on the development of the first dynamic RAM and the challenges faced, including product prices and yield issues, adds layers of understanding to Intel’s journey.

An intriguing aspect of the book is its portrayal of Moore as a reticent figure in contrast to his more outgoing co-founders. The authors emphasize Moore’s essential contributions, not only as a leader but also as a technical innovator whose influence extended far beyond the limelight.

The final chapters touch upon Moore’s legacy and the enduring impact of Moore’s Law on the semiconductor industry and society at large. The book offers a holistic view of Gordon Moore, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the man behind the quiet revolution that has shaped our technological landscape.

Essentially, “Moore’s Law” is a masterfully researched and presented biography that fills a crucial gap in the history of Silicon Valley. Thackray, Brock, and Jones deliver a narrative that goes beyond a simple chronicle of events, offering readers a profound exploration of the man, his contributions, and the lasting effects of his visionary insights. This book stands as an indispensable resource for anyone interested in the evolution of the semiconductor industry and the extraordinary life of Gordon Moore.

Who is the author of Moore’s Law?

Arnold Thackray is a science historian who is the founding president of the Chemical Heritage Foundation, the Life Sciences Foundation, and Science History Consultants. He is an emeritus professor at the University of Pennsylvania.

Rachel Jones is the author of A Brief Theology of Periods (Yes, really), Is This It?, and several books in the award-winning Five Things to Pray series, and serves as Vice President (Editorial) at The Good Book Company.

How long is Moore’s Law?

• Print length: 560 pages

What genre is Moore’s Law?

Biography, Business, Technology