ALMA A design methodology for Microsystem Architectures

ALMA is a structured ASIC design methodology for silicon compilation to be used as a front end to existing CAD environments which provide the lower level silicon compilation tools (data path compiler, logic synthesizer, place & route...). This methodology relies on the use of cell libraries available from vendors and a new HDL: "A". This language describes the structure of the circuit and its behavior by giving the sequence of operations to be performed without any timing reference. Automatic sequencement is then done according to the exact timing caracteristics of the used library cells. ALMA provides interfaces to the host CAD and generates a "C" program, which has the same functionality than the "A" source given by the designer, and which includes the timing references. Simple description and fast compilation, together with the rapid evaluation due to the "C" program, permits to explore alternative solutions (the structure/algorithm couple) so as to elect the one that best matches the designer\´s priorities in term of functionality, performance and cost.