Electronic CAD frameworks

The CAD framework, i.e. the underlying facilities provided to the CAD tool developer, the CAD system integrator, and the end-user (IC or system designer) to facilitate their tasks, is discussed. The development of the CAD framework concept in the domain of electronic circuit design is reviewed. The most important work in the area is briefly described. The major components of a CAD framework are identified, and the requirements and desirable features of these components are described in some detail. Many of the key engineering tradeoffs required to build CAD frameworks are examined, using examples from existing CAD systems. Framework standardization efforts are also reviewed.