--- Quote Start ---
I didn't realise that there was a difference. I guess all my questions above could apply to both a real ASIC and the Hardcopy family from Altera. What kind of designtools would I use to make make a "real" ASIC? What manufacturer and so on? Why should I prefere one over the other?
I guess I am just trying to get some hints and tips on where to start when it comes to ASIC designs. I have a good understanding of FPGA design with Altera FPGAs and want to know how to step over to ASIC design. Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks!
--- Quote End ---
Hi,
there is a large difference between Hardcopy and a "real" ASIC. For Hardcopy Altera more or less replaced the programmable routing with a fixed routing. For an ASIC you need a new synthesis with a specific ASIC library which depence on the ASIC techology.
For all your analog stuff you need a replacement in the choosen ASIC technology. After
you have your synthesis ready you need somebody who will do the chip layout for you.
You have to setup the testing for the ASIC and so on ... You see doing a real ASIC is much more complex then doing an FPGA or Hardcopy device. It is much more expensive and should be done only in case you need a lot of devices. BTW. I'm pretty sure that Altera will not offer an ASIC flow for you. You have to find a designhouse for your ASIC.
Kind regards
GPK
Honored Contributor
