We ran across this micron-sized silicon rendition of a handlebar moustache on a TEC application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). Although the function of the chip is not certain, it appears to be some type of memory circuit. TEC manufactures and develops custom medical, consumer, and military components that benefit from the application of the company's device technology and its unique IC manufacturing process capabilities. Included in the product lineup are AISCs, memory products, hearing aid ICs, and EEPROMS.

The chip containing this artwork was loaned to us by Chipworks, a company that is an international provider of reverse engineering services, analyzing the circuitry and physical composition of semiconductor chips and electronics systems for competitive study, intellectual property support, and reliability assurance.