Microsoft Accelerates DRC With Shift-Left Verification

As integrated circuit (IC) designs grow in complexity, traditional design rule checking (DRC) methods struggle to keep pace. Originally developed for simpler, custom layouts, traditional DRC uses an iterative “construct by correction” method. However, with the rise of automation and multi-layered design hierarchies, relying on traditional sequential DRC approaches can create substantial runtime and resource bottlenecks. Siemens’ Calibre platform offers advanced solutions, like Calibre nmDRC Recon, that leverage a “shift-left” approach—moving verification steps earlier in the design process—to reduce debug time, manage incomplete data, and expedite the path to tape-out. This paper discusses the shift left approach and describes how Microsoft used Calibre nmDRC Recon to run DRC faster, with maximum check coverage and minimum compute hardware.

What you’ll learn:

• How Calibre nmDRC Recon enables early-stage, shift-left verification to reduce IC design runtimes and hardware requirements.
• How localized checks streamline debugging and accelerate design iterations.
• Why features like auto-waivers and split-deck runs make the DRC process more efficient.
• How Microsoft successfully reduced time-to-market and enhanced productivity using these methods.

“Calibre DRC Recon has been a game-changer for our early design stages. It provides a solid foundation that allows our designers to pinpoint violations efficiently, significantly reducing run times and simplifying the debugging process. This tool has truly enhanced our productivity and streamlined our workflow.” — Mike Cesky, Principal Physical Design Engineer at Microsoft

Who should read this:

• Engineers and designers seeking to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of their design verification process
• CAD engineers and engineering managers looking to streamline their verification processes
• Anyone interested in staying up to date with the latest advancements in design automation

To read more, click here.