From ASICs to SOCs: A Practical Approach

1.6. Summary

In this introductory chapter, we defined an SOC and some of its differences from a traditional ASIC. A key concept in SOC design is the usage of different IPs. This by itself creates a big challenge in SOC design, namely IP integration.

Reuse methodology is an important factor in SOC designs that reduces time-to-market (TTM). We cover more on ASICs and SOCs, including verification techniques, in Chapters 2 and 3, respectively.

Chapter 4 deals with the physical design domain that is common to both ASICs and SOCs. Once you have a netlist for the proposed IC (ASIC or SOC), then you enter the world of the physical domain.

Chapter 5 covers low-power design concepts and techniques that again are common to both ASICs and SOCs. Several methods ...