cascode
Joined: 09 Jul 2004
Posts: 6
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 09 Jul 2004 21:57 Mid-range mixed-signal IC design tools |
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We are a small company with a small group (2) of analog IC designer. So far, most of our designs have been mostly analog (up to50/50 Analog/Digital), relatively small chips. We have been using what would be referred to as ’low-end design tools’: Pspsice (for its mixed-signal capability), and Tanner Ledit for layout. Tanner is OK as a layout tool, but has some limitations, and no really integrated front-to-back capabilities. Pspice has some convergence issues, particularly with larger circuit, and limited digital design options.
We are looking at upgrading our tools to have more capabilities for more complex Mixed-Signal IC’s. Unfortunately, upgrading to one of the major vendor design suites is not an option due to $$$$$ limitations. We are likely to remain a small design team, so the big $$$ tools are hard to justify, and we do not get the benefit of saving much on the more expensive tools (ex.: verification, or fancy SOC simulator), that are usually shared among a larger group of designers.
For simulation, we are considering Dolphin’s Smash, as it seems too be a capable tool for mixed-signal, mixed-level simulations, and at a good price/performance ratio. Actually, it seems that all the other tools with similar capabilities are quite a bit more expensive.
For the rest, Paragon looks like a good option; Silvaco may also be one (may get a little more pricey).
I imagine there must be quite a few people struggling with the same dilemma?
If anyone has any recommendation, or experience with the ‘mid-range’ tools, I would greatly appreciate their comments.
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