Process Analysis

Efficient IP migration requires a different approach from the standard design flow for analog and mixed signal circuits. Understanding the relationships between the old and new manufacturing processes is the key to a successful migration and this involves a detailed view of the components and parameters and the physical makeup of devices in the layout. 

The design analysis study produces a detailed description of the factors that will affect the migration including design data, source technology and target process.  Experienced migration engineers examine the design databases and test the contents against the target process. OSIRIS migration tools identify all the components used and highlight differences in technologies as well as process limits that may affect the circuit. 

Moving the data to a new foundry or process node can bring several obstacles which may not be apparent without a detailed evaluation of the data.  Both schematic and layout views present their own challenges and these should be identified early in the migration process to prevent problems and delays at a later stage. 

IN2FAB’s migration analysis examines all aspects of the schematic and layout against the demands of the new manufacturing process to give a full picture of the work needed to migrate an existing design. Individual components are compared between the source and target PDKs along with the hierarchy and topology of the circuit. Initial test migrations identify challenges to the migration and how these will be addressed. 

When complete, the study will deliver a report that details the entire migration project, including technical details, schedules and project management information. This gives engineers and managers a clear picture of a potential migration to help plan resources and execute new options and strategies.