Key to a successful cell library development: design methodology

It is argued that cell library development will not be successful unless a solid design methodology is established. The design methodology directs the development of a library that meets the needs of both the ASIC customer and the library developer. A discussion is presented of a method of devising a design methodology flow that results in a library with three essential attributes: productivity, reliability, and maintainability. The approach described consists of three steps: conducting preliminary environmental studies, considering design tradeoffs, and implementing a strategy. The concept of simultaneous engineering is the underlying philosophy throughout the entire process