A hybrid asynchronous system design environment

A hybrid design scheme for the synthesis of asynchronous circuits is described which exploits the rapid design time achievable using the Tangram silicon complier (developed by Philips), the high performance of 4-phase micropipelines and the use of synchronous design techniques to increase concurrency and therefore performance. Trade-offs between area, power performance and design time are thus supported. Substantial performance gains and power reduction may be achieved.