Silicon compiler

A silicon compiler is a software system that takes a user's specifications and automatically generates an integrated circuit (IC). The process is sometimes referred to as hardware compilation.

Silicon compilation takes place in three major steps:

• Convert a hardware-description language such as Verilog or VHDL into logic (typically in the form of a "netlist").
• Place equivalent logic gates on the IC. Silicon compilers typically use standard-cell libraries so that they do not have to worry about the actual integrated-circuit layout and can focus on the placement.
• Routing the standard cells together to form the desired logic.

One of the earliest silicon compilers was called Bristle Blocks.

External links

• Definition from PC Magazine
• Computer Aids for VLSI Design by Steven M. Rubin
• Hardware compilation information
• Hardware compilation mailing list
• Gnu Electric