This paper describes method and EDA (
Electronic Data Automation)
computer software invention for design rule violations check of
mask layout database (integrated circuits
layout) via
the internet. The technique takes
advantage of a unique
algorithm to analyze the
mask layout database to find
mask layout polygons that are less than the minimum design rules (distances) that are determined by the fabrication process. The
computer program then creates an output file that marks all design rule violations location and type. The input of the tool is a mask layout
database (i.e.: layout block / s) that is made manually by a mask design specialist or automatically by automatic IC layout tools. The output of the
software tool is a
guideline mechanism and file to mark all design rule violations for correction. This markers file can be loaded into any industry's standard IC mask layout database editor for viewing and correction. The
software performs on individual mask layout blocks and / or on hierarchical structure of mask layout blocks. The
system also checks mask layout database incrementally, means only blocks that have been changed are checked. The
system is activated via
the internet using secured protocol. In order to reduce the cost of DRC (design rule check)
computer program, corporations may log in to a main
server to submit complete DRC (Design Rule Check) run. User point reference files at a local location (User's local computer) and setup all parameters on a
web based interface. The
system collects all local information and run a complete design rule check locally or on remote
server. The system offer a web based control panel to execute all necessary setups for submitting design rule check over
the internet using any secured internet browser like MS Explorer and Netscape. The system offers the option to run on a
local machine (user's computer) or on the main
server over the internet. The system also offers a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) interface to launch DRC runs via industry's standard PDA's. The procedure is fully secured by 128 bit security protocol. The system supports existing
industry standard rule decks like: Mentor's Calibre,
Cadence's Assura and Synopsys's Hercules. All design rules can be easily imported from these rule decks to be used by DRC program on the main server. All necessary files including mask layout GDSII (or GSIII) file and technology file are securely encrypted using 128 bit protocol and send to the remote server. These files are decrypted on the
remote computer and submitted for design rule check. The main remote server is distributing the task among other computer system for advanced
parallel processing to achieve fast results. All results log files are encrypted using 128 bit security protocol and available for download by the user. In case of local design rule check the results files are available on the user's
local machine. This approach eliminates the purchase of a full local
license and enables affordable price for small and medium size
chip design firms. This fact significantly reduces integrated circuits design cost and
time to market factor for
chip design corporations, enabling faster deliveries to their end customers.