Implementing VLSI Systems in a Research Environment

Abstract

Traditionally, integrated circuits have been designed and implemented only for applications likely to require large numbers of chips. The IC's were realized by closely cooperating experts, each well-versed in some aspect of the art of integrated circuit design and manufacturing. Economics and the detailed knowledge needed prohibited any group unwilling or unable to make a considerable resource commitment from producing integrated circuits. Prototypes and one- or few-of-a-kind systems were built from off-the-shelf components (or not at all}. Recently, advances in IC technology and the emergence of new design methodologies have made it possible for people lacking IC manufacturing expertise to design VLSI circuits. While the population able to cast their ideas in silicon is increasing, a previously unseen set of problems has emerged. The remainder of this paper will examine the background of these people and some of the problems that are now critical obstructions in the path to implementing VLSI circuit designs.