Which of these IC or semiconductor devices normally requires the most careful handling to avoid damage by static electricity?

CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) devices are highly sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD) and require careful handling to prevent damage. This sensitivity arises from the thin gate oxides used in the construction of CMOS technology, which can easily break down under high voltages generated by static electricity. The gate of a CMOS transistor can be permanently damaged if exposed to even small amounts of ESD, which makes it critical to handle these devices in a static-free environment.

In contrast, while diodes, BJTs (Bipolar Junction Transistors), and operational amplifiers can also be susceptible to static electricity, they typically have higher tolerance levels for damage from ESD compared to CMOS devices. This difference in tolerance is largely due to their construction and the materials used, which are generally more robust against electrical stresses. Therefore, when working with ICs and semiconductors, awareness of the specific handling requirements is essential, especially for CMOS technology.