Webinar: Using Embedded FPGA to Improve Machine Learning SOCs

Webinar: Using Embedded FPGA to Improve Machine Learning SOCs
by Tom Simon on 08-22-2019 at 6:00 am

By its very definition, machine learning (ML) hardware requires flexibility. In turn, each ML application has its own fine grain requirements. Specific hardware implementations that include specialized processing elements are often desirable for machine learning chips. At the top of the priority list is parallel processing.… Read More


Can a hierarchical Test flow be used on a flat design?

Can a hierarchical Test flow be used on a flat design?
by Tom Simon on 08-15-2019 at 10:00 am

It is pretty common for physical layout to work from a flattened hierarchy for blocks or even full chips, even though the front-end design starts with a hierarchical representation. This was not always the case. Way back when, the physical layout matched the logical hierarchy during the design process. Of course, this led to all… Read More


Adding CDM Protection to a Real World LNA Test Case

Adding CDM Protection to a Real World LNA Test Case
by Tom Simon on 08-06-2019 at 6:00 am

In RF designs Low Noise Amplifiers (LNA) play a critical role in system operation. They simultaneously need to be extremely sensitive and noise free, yet also must be able to withstand strong signal input without distortion. LNA designers often struggle to meet device performance specifications. Their task is further complicated… Read More


56th DAC – In Depth Look at Analog IP Migration from MunEDA

56th DAC – In Depth Look at Analog IP Migration from MunEDA
by Tom Simon on 07-31-2019 at 10:00 am

Every year at DAC, in addition to the hubbub of the exhibit floor and the relatively short technical sessions, there are a number of tutorials that dive in depth into interesting topics. At the 56th DAC in Las Vegas this year, MunEDA offered an interesting tutorial on Analog IP migration and optimization. This is a key issue for large… Read More


Virtuoso Adapts to Address Cyber Physical Systems

Virtuoso Adapts to Address Cyber Physical Systems
by Tom Simon on 07-29-2019 at 2:00 pm

LIDAR is a controversial topic, with even Elon Musk weighing in on whether it will ever be feasible for use in self driving cars. His contention is that the sensors will remain too expensive and potentially be unreliable because of their mechanical complexity. However, each of the sensors available for autonomous driving have … Read More


Synopsys and Synaptics Talk About Securing the Connected Home

Synopsys and Synaptics Talk About Securing the Connected Home
by Tom Simon on 07-23-2019 at 10:00 am

Like many people, I have been adding automation to my home, and the number of connected devices I use has slowly but steadily increased. These include light bulbs, cameras, switches, a thermostat, a voice assistant, etc. Between them, they know when I am home or away, and have the ability to record images and sound. In addition to … Read More


HBM or CDM ESD Verification – You Need Both

HBM or CDM ESD Verification – You Need Both
by Tom Simon on 07-11-2019 at 11:00 am

In the realm of ESD protection, Charged Device Model (CDM) is becoming the biggest challenge. Of course, Human Body Model (HBM) is still essential, and needs to be used when verifying chips. However, a number of factors are raising the potential losses that CDM events can cause relative to HBM. These factors fall into two categories:… Read More


Automotive Market Pushing Test Tool Capabilities

Automotive Market Pushing Test Tool Capabilities
by Tom Simon on 07-09-2019 at 8:00 am

It’s easy to imagine that the main impetus for automotive electronics safety standards like ISO 26262 is the emergence of autonomous driving technology. However, even cars that do not offer this capability rely heavily on electronics for many critical systems. These include engine control, braking, crash sensors, and stability… Read More


Dynamic Spectrum Allocation to Help Crowded IoT Airwaves

Dynamic Spectrum Allocation to Help Crowded IoT Airwaves
by Tom Simon on 06-26-2019 at 10:00 am

Radio frequency bandwidth has become a precious commodity, with communications companies paying top dollar for prized pieces of the spectrum. However, many radio bands are not often used efficiently. Many existing radio protocols exchange data on a fixed pair of frequencies, tying up those frequencies for other users. When… Read More


Upcoming HBM and CDM ESD Verification Seminar in Taiwan

Upcoming HBM and CDM ESD Verification Seminar in Taiwan
by Tom Simon on 06-25-2019 at 10:00 am

The electrostatic discharge that occurs in lightening, as seen in the picture below, can cause serious damage to the objects on the ground. Over centuries mankind has devised ways, such as lighting rods and arresters, to deflect the energy so it is dissipated harmlessly. The same drama plays out on modern semiconductors due to … Read More