Automatic VLSI Layout Simulation

Article Abstract:

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is gaining importance in Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) design for three reasons: CAD reduces design time, minimizes cost, and controls complexity. This paper describes a CAD program, SPICEGEN, developed to extract a node list from a physical layout, allowing SPICE simulation runs directly from a physical layout. SPICEGEN has been demonstrated to save Honeywell Large Computer Products Division (LCPD) time at a reduced cost by identifying errors before the prototype IC's were manufactured. Furthermore, when SPICEGEN approved a layout, it was indeed correct and could be manufactured with yield the first time. SPICEGEN can be used alone or in conjunction with other available CAD tools. Although originally developed to run SPICE simulations, SPICEGEN has, as a bonus, an error report file. This file uncovers errors such as open circuits without running the SPICE simulation.

Integrated circuits, Computer aided design, Gate arrays, Simulation Languages, Computer-Aided Design

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A non-linear pattern generator for testing digital VLSI circuitry

Article Abstract:

A digital pattern generator suggested by the boundary scan structure was examined using Fortran simulation. The scan register is closed to form a circular shift register. Each logic output is exclusive-ored between two boundary scan stages. The resulting circuit is a large, usually non-linear, sequential circuit suitable for built-in self-test. Earlier analysis using an independent input model demonstrated that this circular form will provide a rich collection of input test patterns. Our simulation indicates that typical circuits perform even better as pattern generators than the independent model predicts. Specifically the minimum sequence length necessary to cover all possible combinations of K variables was observed to be half or less than the length obtained from the independent model. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Semiconductors and related devices, Integrated circuit fabrication, Product introduction, Tests, Very large scale integration, Modeling, Data modeling software, FORTRAN, FORTRAN (Programming language), Testing, New Technique, Self-Test Capability, Very-Large-Scale Integration, technical, Sequential Circuits, Shift Registers

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Digital Equipment Corporation Announces Two New Marketing Agreements for VLSI Mark Layout Software and MEDS Software for VAX Computers

Article Abstract:

Digital Equipment Corporation and Scientific Calculations, Inc. will market MicroElectronics Design System (MEDS) software on Digital Equipment's VAX 32-bit superminis. MEDS is a self-contained, stand-alone system for VLSI design. Digital has also arranged with Phoenix Data Systems to market a VLSI verification package to run on Digital's 32-bit super minicomputers.

Software, Marketing, Minicomputers, Computer Systems, Companies, Joint Venture, Minicomputer, 32-Bit

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