Tapeout Execution System (TES), a key enabler of DFM/Co-optimization

Tapeout has evolved from an event marking the end of design to a process where substantial compute resources are used to apply reticle enhancement techniques to product design prior to mask manufacturing. A tapeout execution system (TES) has been developed that provides centralized visibility, controllability and automated execution to the entire tapeout process. TES provides a system for identifying and removing process bottlenecks, quality issues, and compute inefficiencies, resulting in faster tapeout throughput with fewer resources and with higher quality. Furthermore, the TES model provides a framework for data exchange that strengthens the integration between design and manufacturing.