From algorithm conception to product manufacture: an automated design approach

The authors describe a fully integrated design environment geared toward the mapping of algorithms to application-specific integrated circuits. This design environment consists of a family of silicon compilers, each of which is geared toward a specific architecture, implemented using a well-structured software environment (FACE). The system description language and compilation tools associated with this methodology allow the designer to work at the conceptual and architectural level while being sheltered from the need to craft details at the device and circuit level. A detailed design example describes this methodology, emphasizing the reduction in design time and manpower required. The results of chip designs using this design approach are also highlighted.<>