The IC Module Compiler, A VLSI System Design Aid

The IC Module Compiler is a new design aid that applies structured hierarchical design methodology, similar to aspects of the methodology pioneered by the Caltech Silicon Structures Project [GRA79], to the task of defining VLSI chip logic. It converts designs described as interconnections of MSI level modules into detailed logic or functional descriptions for simulators and other chip design aids. Detailed models of the modules, including adders, counters, multiplexers and memory elements, are stored in a library. Along with a simple syntax for circuit connectivity data, the Module Compiler language features C language style constructs to support module parameterization and maximize flexibility. This paper describes the features and structure of the Module Compiler and illustrates its application through examples.