Description

Introduction

Synopsys Custom Compiler is a unified custom IC design platform. It supports schematic capture, SPICE simulation setup, and waveform analysis in a single environment. In addition, it enables designers to validate analog, RF, and mixed-signal circuits efficiently. Furthermore, the platform integrates simulation and visualization tools for better accuracy. As a result, it improves debugging and significantly reduces iteration cycles in IC development.

Learner Prerequisites

• Basic understanding of CMOS analog and digital circuits
• In addition, familiarity with SPICE simulation concepts (DC, AC, transient analysis)
• Knowledge of schematic capture fundamentals
• Moreover, understanding of semiconductor device behavior
• Awareness of PDK and model libraries is also required

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to SPICE Simulation in Custom Compiler

1.1 Overview of SPICE simulation flow and its importance
1.2 Role of simulation in analog IC design workflows
1.3 Integration of schematic with simulation engine
1.4 Types of analysis such as DC, AC, and transient
1.5 Importance of pre-layout verification in design flow

2. Simulation Environment Setup

2.1 Configuring simulation workspace and project settings
2.2 Linking design libraries and model files correctly
2.3 Creating and managing simulation testbenches
2.4 Setting simulator options and run controls
2.5 Preparing project environment for simulation runs

3. SPICE Netlist Generation

3.1 Converting schematic into SPICE netlist format
3.2 Understanding netlist structure and hierarchy
3.3 Mapping device models and parameters correctly
3.4 Verifying generated netlist accuracy
3.5 Debugging and fixing netlist-related issues

4. Analysis Types and Configuration

4.1 DC operating point analysis setup and usage
4.2 AC small-signal analysis configuration
4.3 Transient time-domain analysis execution
4.4 Parametric sweep and variation analysis
4.5 Corner and PVT analysis configuration

5. Running Simulations

5.1 Executing simulation runs effectively
5.2 Monitoring simulation progress in real time
5.3 In addition, handling convergence issues carefully
5.4 Controlling simulation iterations and settings
5.5 Finally, debugging simulation errors step by step

6. Waveform Viewer Overview

6.1 Introduction to waveform viewing tool
6.2 Loading and visualizing simulation results
6.3 Navigating and interpreting signal plots
6.4 Using zoom, cursors, and measurement tools
6.5 Saving and exporting waveform data

7. Signal Analysis Techniques

7.1 Measuring voltage and current waveforms accurately
7.2 Performing frequency and gain analysis
7.3 Calculating delay and rise/fall times
7.4 Moreover, analyzing noise and distortion behavior
7.5 Comparing multiple simulation results effectively

8. Parametric and Corner Simulations

8.1 Running multi-parameter sweep simulations
8.2 Performing PVT (process-voltage-temperature) analysis
8.3 Conducting statistical variation analysis
8.4 Evaluating worst-case design scenarios
8.5 Interpreting corner simulation results clearly

9. Debugging and Optimization

9.1 Identifying simulation mismatches and errors
9.2 Fixing convergence and stability issues
9.3 Improving simulation accuracy and reliability
9.4 Optimizing testbench setup for efficiency
9.5 Applying best practices for stable results

10. Design Validation Workflow

10.1 Correlating schematic results with simulation output
10.2 Validating key circuit performance metrics
10.3 Performing iterative design improvements
10.4 Applying pre-layout verification strategy
10.5 Ensuring sign-off readiness for tapeo

Conclusion

This training enables learners to effectively perform SPICE simulation and waveform analysis using Synopsys Custom Compiler. Therefore, they can validate, debug, and optimize analog and custom IC designs with higher accuracy and efficiency.