The CADEC VLSI design support methodology

The authors address the problem of design flow management with special emphasis on tool selection strategies. To solve this problem the concept and implementation of a design consultant (CADEC) is described. The concept of this expert system based facility for tool selection and execution, which enriches the CAD framework, is presented. The various phases that are to be undergone for completion of the design process are embedded within this concept. The implementational aspects of this expert facility, using an object-oriented approach, are given. CADEC offers comprehensive support through all steps of the design process and guides the designer through the complex maze of tools and data. integrated within a framework.<>