Implementing VLSI components in telecommunications systems: benefits and pitfalls

It is noted that VLSI components for applications in telecommunications systems can be classified in three different categories: standard circuits like microprocessors and memory chips, extensively standardized telecommunication-specific circuits such as codecs, filters, and customized ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits). The use of such components offers the system designer excellent advantages regarding function integration, space and energy requirements, hardware costs, and built-in software performance, particularly with respect to standardized system interfaces. It is pointed out that technologies which initially are often close to physical limits, and the restricted availability of such components, present both medium- and long-term risks. This is especially true for telecommunications equipment. It is suggested that the risks involved in such a major innovative step can be reduced by designing a clear system structure with precisely defined interfaces. As long as the product life cycle is considered, advances which provide opportunity for further innovation are a very good investment