IC Layout Articles

REALITY To start with, we need to acknowledge Cadence Virtuoso designers (the ones that create “Virtuoso” for the world).  They have a pretty good idea on what is going on with designers using their software.   Over the last few decades, They have utilized the “Artificial Intelligence” language called “SKILL” to solve these issues uncovered by the marketplace.  These… Continue reading Cadence Concurrent Layout (Reality & Schedules)

Telephony: "The Great Telephone & Computer Convergence". Since the early 1980's, consumer computers and other electronics have been converging with telephone computers and networks. In the late 1990's, the first "Great Convergence" began. It was really two separate stories unfolding. By the late 1980's, the popularity of personal computing had grown immense. People everywhere, who… Continue reading From Telephony To Interposer Semiconductors – Two Great Convergences

Based on this article, about TSMC setting up a huge fab in Arizona, one can't help but wonder if Semi-conductor manufacturers will become more like the automotive industry. World wide ownership and manufacturing. Many years ago, when Toyota began manufacturing in the US, they were small part of the market. By the early 2000's, they… Continue reading Who’s The Boss?

The first step is to ensure the Product Development Kit (PDK) is fine-tuned and well supported.  Fine-tuned means current and new users are setup properly for the project.  All required libraries are available with verification flows tested and samples available.  Well supported means PDK documentation is available and as complete as possible.   1) How long a layout… Continue reading TSMC 7nm/5nm Combined Layout Notes

To understand this you need to review the "Physical Design Stage", The stage of IC Design where conception, architecture, simulation and test plans meet the real world. There are many views of creating IC products which are critical to design success. RTL, architecture, design, packaging simulation, software development and testing. Like a funnel, they all… Continue reading Why Does Cadence VXL Compliance Matter?