| Summary: | The work described in this thesis is concerned with the development of CADIC (Computer Aided Design of Integrated Circuits), a suite of computer programs which allows the user to design integrated circuit layouts at the geometric level. Initially, a review of existing computer aids to integrated circuit design is carried out. Advantages and disadvantages of each computer aid is discused, and the approach taken by CADIC justified in the light of the review. The hardware associated with a design aid can greatly influence its performance and useability. For this reason, a critical review of available graphic terminals is also undertaken. The requirements, logistics, and operation of CADIC is then discussed in detail. CADIC provides a consise range of features to aid in the design and testing of integrated circuit layouts. The most important features are however CADIC's high efficiency in processing layout data, and the implementation of complete on-line design rule checking. Utilization of these features allows CADIC to substantially reduce the lengthy design turnaround time normally associated with manual design aids. Finally, the performance of CADIC is presented. Analysis of the results show that CADIC is very efficient at data processing, especially when small sections of the layout are considered. CADIC can also perform complete on-line design rule checking well within the time it takes the designer to start adding the next shape.
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