What This Document Is
This is a lab manual specifically designed for students enrolled in an advanced Smart Sensor Technology course focusing on integrated circuit (IC) design. It details a practical exercise centered around using Virtuoso Layout XL (VXL), a powerful software tool used in the physical implementation of electronic circuits. The lab focuses on translating schematic designs into actual physical layouts suitable for fabrication, a critical step in the IC design process. It builds upon foundational knowledge established in prior labs, assuming familiarity with the core CDS tools.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is essential for electrical and computer engineering students who need hands-on experience with industry-standard layout software. It’s particularly valuable for those pursuing careers in IC design, microelectronics, or related fields. Students will benefit from working through this lab to solidify their understanding of layout principles, transistor-level design, and the practical considerations involved in creating functional integrated circuits. It’s best utilized *during* a lab session, alongside access to the necessary software, to reinforce theoretical concepts with practical application.
Common Limitations or Challenges
This lab manual provides a guided walkthrough of a specific layout task. It does *not* offer a comprehensive tutorial on all Virtuoso features or IC layout techniques. It assumes a working knowledge of semiconductor device physics and basic circuit design principles. Furthermore, it focuses on a particular process technology (AMI06) and may not be directly applicable to other fabrication processes without modification. It also doesn’t cover advanced layout optimization techniques or design rule checking in detail.
What This Document Provides
* A focused exercise on utilizing Virtuoso Layout XL for IC design.
* Guidance on creating layouts from schematic representations.
* An exploration of transistor chaining techniques.
* Instructions on implementing standard cell designs.
* Information on establishing proper substrate connections within a layout.
* Visual references to the Virtuoso Layout Suite interface and key windows.
* Details on configuring the Layer Select Window (LSW) for optimal usability.
* A starting point for schematic-driven layout workflows.