Technology File

Today, we are going to take a look at the technology file which is a very important file in the design setup to start floorplan. File has played key role in chip designing and here, we go………………..

 

Technology file is the most important input to the PNR tool. It contains process-specific parameters such as metal layers, vias, etc. Technology file is given by FABRICATION COMPANY.

Technology file contains information that is used to configure the structure, parameters and limits of an ASIC design targeted to specific process technology.

 

Technology file used by Synopsys in technology information .tf file format and by Cadence with technology information in LEF format (.techlef). Both the file contains the same information.

Technology file is in ASCII format. The new file is generated for each technology note.

The Technology file contains:

• Technology name.  
• Units and precision of electrical parameters like voltage, current, etc.
• Definition of a different colour with RGB values for each layer which are visible in layout.
• All metal layer and vias information along with design rule of them such as width (min-max), min spacing, area(min-max), pitch, colour, max current density, etc.
• Along with metal layers physical profile, information regarding diffusion layer, polysilicon, etc.
• Via related information such as colour, layers, patterns, min-width, min spacing, pitch, max current density, etc.
• Mask related information. 
• Design rules for each layer and via.
• Standard cell placement tile. 
• Metal layer slotting rule. 
• Antenna Definition.  

 

At this note of discussion, I wrapped this topic and we will meet soon with a new topic of Design Setup. Thank you, Have a nice day!!!