Exploring the use of cadence IC in education

Abstract

Microelectronics technologies and structures is electronics subfield, related to the study of integrated circuit design and fabrication. To familiarize with this widely applicable area, engineering students should gain practical experience, in addition to the theoretical knowledge attained on different microelectronics courses. Cadence IC is a world standard tool in this area, applicable not only in industry, but also in academic institutions. The academic environment of Republic of Macedonia has the ability to use this package through cooperation with foreign partners. Assuming that the access to the provided design kits is limited, the freely available NCSU CDK library from the North Carolina State University is integrated within the Cadence IC environment, and later used for educational purposes. The basic contribution of this paper is the systematization of the methodology for NCSU CDK library application by the students at FEEIT - Skopje, at both third cycle, and other levels of studies. Our general opinion is that the Cadence IC tool suite provides novel opportunities to academia and students in many educational and research activities.