pFSB technology enables field programmability in an ASIC environment

Describes pFSB (programmable functional system blocks) technology and cells, a field-programmable capability based on ViaLink antifuse technology that can be embedded in an ASIC chip. Fully compatible with existing high-speed ASIC processing, library cells, compilers, and design tools, pFSB cells give the user an extension of traditional ASIC technology that provides for additional value in both ASIC- and ASSP (application specific signal processor) based systems. Chips using pFSB structures, as memory, logic, or customized elements, give the designer the ability to make last-minute decisions in product design, as well as allowing the security of designs to be easily implemented. The availability of comprehensive testing and programming hardware and software results in a user environment for chips using pFSB cells that is both friendly and easily implemented. The authors present a description of the ViaLink programming element, a description of pFSB cells and how they are used, and a summary of design methodology, testing, and programming considerations.<>