Date: 01/06/2009
Agilent's updated design tool for MMIC and RF module design
Agilent Technologies has released Advanced Design System (ADS) 2009 Update-1, a complete front-to-back solution for designing monolithic microwave integrated circuit (MMIC) and RF modules. The release packs 3-D electromagnetic (EM) analysis, wireless standards-based design verification libraries, X-parameter simulation, and statistical design and yield optimization.
"This release represents a big jump in efficiency for MMIC and RF module designers," said How-Siang Yap, product marketing manager with Agilent's EEsof EDA division. "Designers clearly prefer a single design flow, without the stops and starts associated with point tools. ADS 2009 Update 1 provides a single, superior flow where our customers can do more analysis while spending less money on design tools."
The key features offered in ADS 2009 Update 1 include:
1. Integrated planar and 3-D EM simulation and analysis
2. An X-parameter simulation model generator
3. Statistical and yield Optimization Cockpit
4. An MMIC layout personality
5. Access to ADS layout functions from foundry-endorsed Process Design Kit (PDK) components for faster, error-free MMIC/system-in-package (SIP) layout and design synchronization with the schematic.
6. Mentor Calibre Layout-Vs-Schematic (LVS) integration in the MMIC/SIP design flow.
"Our partnership with key MMIC foundries and their customers ensures that all criteria required for full PDK endorsement within ADS is met," said Steve Chen, Advanced Design System research and development manager with Agilent's EEsof EDA division. "The partnerships allow the ADS EDA platform to completely support the MMIC front-to-back flow signoff with Mentor's Calibre or Cadence's Assura verification tools, which are required by many foundries and customers."
ADS 2009 Update 1 also integrates with Cadence and Mentor backend verification tools, enabling the import of Design Rule Check results from Cadence Assura, Mentor Calibre or Triquint MailDRC for viewing and correcting within the ADS layout environment.