An XML-based collaborative framework for ASIC eDesign

Abstract

Efficient management of the large number of expertise and services required for design and verification of complex integrated circuits demands a collaborative design environment. Such an environment should be able to accommodate distributed design teams and design services, as well as heterogeneous design tools and data models. This paper describes a web-based framework for collaborative design of complex integrated circuits such as Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASIC) and System-on-a-chip (SoC). The XML-based framework provides a collaborative environment for secure exchange and OnDemand conversion of heterogeneous design data and delivery of design services. It enables sharing of design data among various design tools and applications by utilizing a central data XML schema. The framework enables transport of integrated design data, design services and EDA tools across a unified XML protocol. The virtual central database provides managed access, control, collaboration, and sharing of expertise and design services across LAN, Intranet, or Internet. Secure design data and silicon IP interchange are supported across distributed design centers. Outsourced resources and internal expertise are integrated via IBM Customer Connect or industry standard HTTP tunnel protocols. A web-based silicon IP portal for OnDemand IP design specification, qualification and data exchange is developed based on the system architecture described in this paper.