Computer aided integrated circuit design

The design of silicon integrated circuits requires a broad spectrum of computer aids for simulation, physical design, and testing. A CAD approach is described which is both integrated and distributed in nature. The various functions required by circuit designers for simulation, layout, and testing are integrated into a single system, based on a minicomputer (HP21MX) with a storage scope (Tektronix 4014) display. These systems are distributed to provide the design aids in close proximity to users. Approximately forty systems are now employed for the various steps in the design process.