VLSI design using Apple MacIntosh

Abstract

VLSI design has caused a revolution in microminiaturization. The design process requires construction of stick diagrams for the digital circuit to be designed. These diagrams are prepared using different colored layers. The color graphics and the color monitors make the overall system quite expensive. The object of this article is to show how an inexpensive personal computer like the Apple MacIntosh can be used for preparing VLSI stick diagrams. The Apple MacIntosh's capabilities include translation, mirroring, detail work and hatching; which are indispensible in the construction of stick diagrams. The stick diagrams for a few examples such as serial adder, half adder, adder/subtractor and generalized pipeline array cell have been worked out. It is hoped that this paper will aid in making VLSI design easier on less expensive and easily obtainable personal computers.