Introduction to VLSI CAD Tools

Catalog description

The course introduces some basic industry-grade computer-aided-design (CAD) tool skills used to facilitate the design, verification and analysis of VLSI. The course begins with an introduction to CMOS design and process technologies. Then it covers basics interconnect design and noise analysis. Industry tools such as Synopsys Hspice, and Microwind layout tools will be introduced and studied using simple circuits. Overview of parasitic extraction, layout verification, interconnect design and timing analysis are also given. Optical interconnect introduction is also discussed. The course also introduces Verilog Programming, a desired skill sought by industry.