The Week In Review: Design

Tools
Ansys updated its simulation suite, improving the speed of PCB and electronic package simulation as well as integrating its embedded systems tool with its failure analysis capabilities. Other updates include a new visual ray tracing capability to aid in antenna placement, improved modeling of the quality of wireless links in the presence of electromagnetic interference and RF interference, and improved CFD solve times.

IP
Codasip expanded its family of RISC-V processors, adding an ultra-low power 32-bit FSM processor targeted at IoT. In its basic configuration, the Bk-1 starts at 9k gates while delivering a maximum clock frequency of up to 350 MHz in a 55nm process. The Bk-1 has an optional power management unit, JTAG debug controller, and bridges to the AMBA buses so it can be integrated into existing Arm designs.

Moortec released an embedded in-chip monitoring subsystem for TSMC’s 7nm FinFET process. The subsystem includes a new 7nm high precision low power junction temperature sensor that has been developed to be embedded into ASIC designs, as well as a process monitor to detect process variation of 7nm core digital MOS devices. The subsystem also includes a PVT Controller with AMBA APB interfacing.

Deals
SiFive and Rambus teamed up to make Rambus’ cryptography technology available to users of SiFive Freedom SoCs, including cryptographic cores, hardware root-of-trust, key provisioning, and high-value services. This is the first partnership for SiFive’s DesignShare program, which aims to provide low- or no-cost IP to emerging companies using SiFive’s RISC-V platform.

Events
DVCon India is fast approaching. The conference, focused on the design and verification of IPs, SoCs and electronic systems, will be held Sept. 14-15 in Bangalore, India and features keynotes on the changing requirements for verification, deep learning, autonomous cars, and the next wave of verification. Advance registration has been extended to Aug. 28.

Numbers
World Semiconductor Trade Statistics updated its 2017 forecast, estimating the semiconductor market will grow 17% to $397 billion this year, up from its earlier estimate of 11.5% growth. 2018 is forecasted to be up another 4.3% to $414 billion. The largest growth is expected across sensors, analog, and memory.