Tools for rapid prototyping and microelectronic system design

Abstract

Microelectronic system design is undergoing rapid changes that dramatically affect the way microelectronic systems are designed and implemented. These changes are also having a direct impact on the way microelectronic design is taught in technical study programs such as engineering. We have been involved in a project over the past year to develop an environment for the design and rapid prototyping of small-scale systems. This paper describes our experiences with the system design and rapid prototyping tools that were evaluated during that period.