IC Design Project: From Concept to Tapeout

IC Design Project: From Concept to Tapeout

This project focuses on designing and fabricating high-performance VLSI circuits using TSMC’s 130/65 nm Skywater 130nm or TSMC 180BCD CMOS technology PDK. It includes comprehensive digital, analog, and mixed-signal design flows and emphasizes teamwork and advanced circuit techniques.

Course Contents

  • Digital Design Flow: ALU, CLBs, TRNG, etc.
  • Analog Design Flow: Oscillators, Opamps, OTAs, Bandgap references, etc.
  • Mixed-Signal Design Flow: PLLs, ADCs, DACs, ΣΔ converters, etc.
  • Advanced Circuit Techniques
  • ESD-Aware Pad Frame Design
  • Power Distribution Network (PDN) Design
  • Chip Layout and Sign-Off
  • Promotion of Teamwork

Course Learning Outcomes

  • Apply digital, analog, and mixed-signal design flows to VLSI circuit design.
  • Implement advanced circuit techniques and ESD-aware pad frame design.
  • Design and analyze power distribution networks for ICs.
  • Collaborate effectively in a team environment to manage complex VLSI projects.
  • Complete the chip layout and sign-off process for VLSI circuits.

Project Examples

  • Hands-on self-paced lab work with an estimated time of 30 to 40 hours each week per student.
  • IC fabrication and packaging cost details are provided in the budget.