SANTA CLARA, Calif. and SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 18, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Extreme DA(tm) and Magma(r) Design Automation (Nasdaq:LAVA) announced the availability of the jointly developed statistical library models for analysis and optimization of integrated circuit (IC) designs, enabling the Magma SiliconSmart(r) DFM characterization system to automatically generate models for statistical timing analysis using Extreme DA's GoldTime(tm). Using the cell models produced by SiliconSmart with GoldTime analysis, designers can achieve higher yield and better performance in their 65- and 45-nanometer (nm) ICs.
ICs Designed for 65 nm and Below Require Statistical Analysis and Runtime Savings
At advanced process nodes of 65 nm and below, systematic and random variations that affect the performance of IC designs require statistical analysis. Statistical modeling that captures the variations in each cell or logic component is an essential element of the analysis, which helps designers understand the effect of variations on achieving timing targets for their IC designs. The Magma SiliconSmart DFM characterization system accurately models these variations, increasing the yield of high clock frequency and low-power parts by enabling optimization to automatically prevent timing hazards found by Extreme DA GoldTime.
GoldTime statistical models are typically 5 times more compact than other model formats - without compromising accuracy levels. The models' accuracy has been verified through extensive use by Extreme DA and Magma mutual customers. Extreme DA's unique modeling technique also enables the analysis of a virtually unlimited number of device mismatches. With its smaller libraries and advanced algorithms, GoldTime gives designers a new generation of timing analysis with the most technically advanced capabilities available.
The number of simulations required for statistical characterization is growing exponentially to handle all the combinations of changing parameters. Magma SiliconSmart DFM provides massive runtime savings through intelligent simulation optimization for statistical parameter selection and data gathering.
"The accuracy of analysis performed in variation-aware design flows correlates directly to the quality of its fundamental components: the models," said Suk Lee, general manager of Magma's Custom Design Business Unit. "Our customers look to Magma for rapid and precise cell characterization and model generation. By extending SiliconSmart DFM with model generation that supports Extreme DA GoldTime, we're delivering the most advanced technology available for faster design of higher-yielding ICs."
"In characterization and modeling, Magma is a leader with its SiliconSmart DFM characterization system supporting advanced design flows," said Mustafa Celik, president and CEO of Extreme DA. "We believe the companies' collaboration will drive increased adoption of GoldTime by makers of advanced IC designs, who will experience dramatically increased yield and performance."
About Extreme DA
Headquartered in Santa Clara, Calif., venture-funded Extreme DA develops and licenses software products that provide timing analysis for IC sign-off and improve the performance and yield of nanometer integrated circuits before manufacturing. The company's investors include Foundation Capital, IT-Farm Corporation, and Lanza techVentures. For the latest news on Extreme DA, visit www.extreme-da.com or write to info@extreme-da.com.
About Magma
Magma's software for designing integrated circuits (ICs) is used to create complex, high-performance chips required in cellular telephones, electronic games, WiFi, MP3 players, DVD/digital video, networking, automotive electronics and other electronic applications. Magma's EDA software for IC implementation, analysis, physical verification, circuit simulation and characterization is recognized as embodying the best in semiconductor technology, enabling the world's top chip companies to "Design Ahead of the Curve"(tm) while reducing design time and costs. Magma is headquartered in San Jose, Calif. with offices around the world. Magma's stock trades on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol LAVA. Visit Magma Design Automation on the Web at www.magma-da.com.
Extreme DA and Extreme GoldTime are trademarks of Extreme DA. Magma and SiliconSmart are registered trademarks and "Design Ahead of the Curve" is a trademark of Magma Design Automation. All other product and company names are the property of their respective owners.
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Forward-looking Statements:
Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters set forth in this press release, including statements about the features and benefits of Magma's and ExtremeDA's software are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the "safe harbor" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially including but not limited to the ability of Magma's and ExtremeDA's products to produce the desired results, the companies' abilities to keep pace with rapidly changing technology and the companies' decisions to continue working together. Further discussion of these and other potential risk factors may be found in Magma's public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (www.sec.gov). The companies undertake no additional obligation to update these forward-looking statements.