Cross-talk immune VLSI design using a network of PLAs embedded in a regular layout fabric

Abstract

We present a VLSI design methodology to address the cross-talk problem, which is becoming increasingly important in Deep Sub-Micron (DSM) IC design. In our approach, we implement the logic netlist in the form of a network of medium sized PLAs. We utilize two regular layout "fabrics" in our methodology, one for areas where PLA logic is implemented, and another for routing regions between such logic blocks. We show that a single PLA implemented in the first fabric style is not only cross-talk immune, but also about 2 smaller and faster than a traditional standard cell based implementation of the same logic. The second fabric, utilized in the routing region between individual PLAs, is also highly cross-talk immune. Additionally, in this fabric, power and ground signals are essentially "pre-routed" all over the die.