IC creation process

The figure in the top left corner depicts Bruco's IC Creation Process. This process splits the design, verification and production in smaller chunks that can be managed relatively easy.

During the pre-concept phase, a preliminary specification will be prepared. Further, the scope and the definition of the project are defined. An initial estimate of the effort can be part of this phase as well.

In the concept phase, in close cooperation with the customer we will agree upon specification and architecture. Further, we will identify and assess risks and prepare for DfT/DfX (Design for Test, Design for Excellence). Other important deliverables are selection of the foundry, the technology, the tools and the design flows. Finally, the constraints for evaluation, qualification and testing will be prepared.

During creation, the project team will prepare the design, schematics and layout. Simulations and several checks (LVS - layout vs schematics, DRC - design rule check, ERC - electrical rule check, antenna check, STA - static timing analysis) are run to verify the design database. We have a track record in first-time-functional-right. An important deliverable is the gds2 file. While the foundry will process the ASIC, we can prepare the evaluation. Bruco has a well-equipped lab for evaluation purposes. Our lab setups are automated with LabView in order to minimize the duration of the evaluation measurements. Once we receive the silicon from the foundry, we will evaluate it against specification. In mean-time, the test program and the qualification can be prepared.

The production phase includes ramp-up of volume production, in-time delivery to the customer and - at the end of the product lifecycle - production ramp-down.