Supervison Questions and Example Exam Questions
Define a logic modelling system where a net takes more than four
values and state the advantage (if any) over a four value system.
Define the type system for model ports and give the interconnection
rules.
What is a behavioural model for a component and how is
it used ? Explain the use of behavioural modelling for
simulation, synthesis and rapid prototyping.
What is logic synthesis? What are its advantages and
disadvantages over manual design entry? What input and
output files are used.
What is meant by fault coverage ? How can test modes be
implemented which simplify device testing? What penalties
do your test modes introduce ?
How is the cost of a system affected by its partition ? Include
chip yield, design reuse, and the effect of development cost in
the system price as the production quantity is varied.
A small company has developed world beating CMOS serial
interconnection technology/circuity which can provide 1 Gbps serial
input and output ports on conventional CMOS dice without
modification to the number of masks or fabrication steps. Advise
the company on how to deliver their technology to the greatest
number of customers and so maximise their revenue.
Describe the back annotation process. How might you
store the details of net delays inside a simulator
and which models would use these values and how ?
What is meant by design rule checking ? How far does design
rule checking go towards ensuring a working design ?
How and why and when does one flatten an hierarchic netlist ?
How does this affect floorplanning and debugging?
A design is required for a wand computer toy. The wand will
have a barcode reader which will scan barcodes found on groceries
and other goods and accumulate credit inside the wand in an
unforegable, non-volatile way. A group of young friends, each
with their own wand, will be able to compete against each other,
gathering points from each item scanned, with more points for
rare/valuable goods. Design the wand, including its display
and controls and a method for wands to connect to each other
to exchange/swap barcode sightings.
A design is required for a motor car-area network which will
interconnect the lights, switches, motors and other sensors and
actuators that are today connected by a heavy copper wiring loom.
Invent a kit of parts that can be used for a car-area network
and show how you use them in some example locations, including
the dash board.