Functionally integrated systems on a chip: technologies, architectures, CAD tools, and applications

The most important challenge in developing next-generation electronics is producing devices that exceed today's performance levels while achieving ultra low-power efficiency and smaller package dimensions. The enabling technology is the evolution of digital, analog, and radio-frequency (RF) integrated circuits toward a monolithic implementation as a system on a chip (SOC). Applications range from consumer electronics like portable computing and mobile wireless communications, to aerospace and military for mobile intelligence systems and low-power satellites in scientific missions. Designs of this complexity require significant advanced in semiconductor technology to address the needs of diverse system components and ensure high-yield manufacturing. Systems will leverage conventional architectures, but the functional integration will also foster the development of novel circuit topologies. Finally, time-to-market demands motivate the emergence of a virtual wafer fab in which products can be designed, modeled, and simulated for validation before actual fabrication.