Definition
A type of electronic memory that stores digital data in integrated circuits made from semiconductor materials, typically silicon. Each storage cell holds a bit of information as an electrical state, and data can be read or written almost instantly with no moving parts.
Plain English
A small electronic chip that stores information using tiny electrical switches. It holds data such as numbers, settings, or programs that the avionics system needs to use.
Context Anchor
Seen in descriptions of modern avionics, GPS units, engine monitors, flight displays, and electronic control units.
Derivation
Semiconductor' comes from 'semi-' (partly) and 'conductor' (something that carries electricity). A semiconductor is a material that conducts electricity only some of the time, depending on conditions. That property is what allows it to act as a tiny on/off switch and store data.
Why Pilots Care
Semiconductor memory is what holds the navigation database, flight plans, and configuration settings in modern cockpit equipment. Knowing the data lives in chips (not on tape or disk) helps explain why updates are fast and why power loss can sometimes affect what is stored, depending on the memory type.
Intuition Check
Do not assume “memory” always means permanent storage. Some semiconductor memory keeps information only while the unit has power; other types keep information after shutdown.
Example Sentence 1
The GPS unit's navigation database is held in semiconductor memory and can be updated by inserting a data card.
Example Sentence 2
Technicians replaced the semiconductor memory module to restore the electronic engine indication system after a power surge.