Real-Time Simulation and Semiautomated Design of Complex ICs

A project called “System on a Chip Real-Time Emulation” (SOCRE) was undertaken to develop and demonstrate a methodology of simulation of operation and semiautomated design of complex mixed-signal (analog/digital) integrated circuits (ICs). The methodology includes the use of a simulation engine (consisting of computer hardware and software) for real-time emulation of a designed IC, in conjunction with an automated design flow that enables automated or semiautomated synthesis of a final design and automated or semiautomated fabrication of the ICs of the designed IC without need for manual reentry of a description of the design.