The virtual chip set: a parametric IP library for system-on-a-chip design

This paper presents a parametric VHDL IP library (VIP), based on synthesizable system level modules. The library can be seen as a virtual software chip set, where any element can be easily customized, connected and merged with the others. A complete design methodology is proposed in order to match the requirements of system realization, where the use of IP modules is a mandatory paradigm. Industrial applications are then presented, mainly in the ITC (Information Technology and Communications) area. The VIP library is integrated in a hardware and software co-design environment, that is now in field trial through a significant ATM case study.