Enabling faster design/performance decisions for 3D-IC package architectures

Abstract

Smaller footprints along with higher bandwidth needs and tightening power performance requirements are forcing the move towards 3D-IC package architectures. This is compounded by the fast pace of development in the mobile, automotive and internet-of-things (IoT) market segments. During the design process, engineers have to access many design and analysis tools, but most of the design flow is often unconnected and design data is exchanged manually. To meet aggressive schedule and market requirements, we aim to showcase a flow to tackle the problem with a native 3D hierarchical design approach incorporating IC-package co-design. Finally, we illustrate the benefits of using such an approach for solving the all-critical thermal “hotspot” issue in a 3D stacked IC design, as seen in the image below, facilitating a quick turnaround for design/performance decisions.