Final answer:
An IC that can be programmed to perform complex logic functions is called an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). Unlike ROM, RAM, or CPU, an FPGA can be reprogrammed to suit different purposes, offering flexibility in various technology sectors.
Step-by-step explanation:
An IC that can be programmed by the user to execute a complex logic function is called a Field Programmable Gate Array, or FPGA. This type of IC allows for the customization of the circuit after manufacturing, enabling a wide range of applications where specific functionalities are needed that can't be served by prefabricated ICs. Unlike a Read-Only Memory (ROM), Random Access Memory (RAM), or a Central Processing Unit (CPU), an FPGA can be reprogrammed to perform different tasks or implement different logic circuits as needed.
FPGAs are especially useful in prototyping and designing digital systems before final integrated circuits are produced. They contain an array of programmable logic blocks and a hierarchy of reconfigurable interconnects that allow the blocks to be interconnected in different ways. This flexibility makes FPGAs invaluable in fields such as embedded systems, telecommunications, and signal processing, among others.