Feature sponsored by Test & measurement


PRODUCTION TEST: THE KEY TO SUPPLYING THE HIGHEST QUALITY ASICS


One of the most desirable trends in electronics system design is to push as much functionality as possible into a single device. To achieve that, it is favourable to use an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) over an off-the-shelf IC. To ensure ASICs retain their edge over their standardised counterparts, each device must undergo a stringent production test regime to confirm its functionality and adherence to specification. Here, Andrew McDerment, operations manager at ASIC design and supply specialist, Swindon Silicon Systems, explains the process of ASIC production test.


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irst, let us begin by defining an ASIC design flow. A design flow is a proven design process that follows various stages of IC development. At Swindon, for example, it consists of consultancy, design, layout, verification and test engineers


working together in a structured process to deliver the optimum ASIC performance for customers, on budget and on time.


The process starts from the customer concept and progresses to the ASIC specification, then onto an early design and simulation, through to layout, prototype verification and production test engineering. It is here at production test engineering where we see the results of the customer’s ASIC transform from a checklist of design requirements to a production-released and fully specification-adherent custom IC.


PUTTING ASICS TO THE TEST Production test forms a critical part of the supply chain. It is essential all ASICs are thoroughly tested to ensure that they meet customers’ complex system requirements and are specification conformant. Opting for a custom IC brings many benefits, not least because it ensures bespoke and optimised performance to the customer, but it also delivers a production


June 2023 Instrumentation Monthly


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