Deep submicron design techniques for the 500 MHz IBM S/390 G5 custom microprocessor

Abstract

High frequency microprocessor designs require rigorous design guidelines, design methodology advancements, and novel approaches in circuit design style for processors operating in the high megahertz range. Timing closure becomes the single most important design issue, however other design metrics such as area, power and noise need to be given equal consideration within the design cycle. Custom design techniques were used through out the logic circuits and arrays as well as the overall design planning for the 500 MHz microprocessor cycle time.