Imec Unveils Cutting-Edge 2nm PDK

Imec, a leading research and innovation hub in nanoelectronics and digital technologies, has recently announced the launch of its highly anticipated 2nm Process Design Kit (PDK). This cutting-edge PDK comes with a comprehensive training programme offered through EUROPRACTICE, aimed at empowering designers and researchers in the semiconductor industry.

The 2nm PDK from Imec is a significant milestone in the field of virtual digital designs, particularly in Imec's N2 technology, which includes innovative features like backside power delivery. By embedding the PDK in popular Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tool suites such as those from Cadence Design Systems and Synopsys, Imec is ensuring widespread access to advanced nodes for design pathfinding, system research, and training.

Academia and industry professionals will now have the necessary tools at their disposal to train the semiconductor experts of tomorrow. This initiative will also facilitate the seamless transition of products into next-generation technologies by providing meaningful design pathfinding capabilities.

The design pathfinding PDK includes essential infrastructure for digital design, leveraging a set of digital standard cell libraries and SRAM IP macros. Looking ahead, Imec plans to expand the platform to cover even more advanced nodes, potentially reaching up to A14 and beyond.

Starting early in the second quarter, the training programme will offer subscribers a deep dive into the specifics of the N2 technology node. Participants will receive hands-on training using the Cadence and Synopsys EDA software, gaining practical experience in digital design platforms.

Brandon Wang, Vice President of Synopsys, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with Imec, stating, "Imec's design pathfinding PDK is an excellent example of how industry partnerships can broaden access to advanced process technology. Our collaboration with Imec to deliver a certified, AI-driven EDA digital design flow for its N2 PDK enables design teams to prototype and accelerate the transition to next-generation technologies."

Yoon Kim, Vice President at Cadence, also highlighted the significance of the new Imec design pathfinding PDK, emphasizing its integration with Cadence's industry-leading digital and custom/analogue full flows. Kim stated, "The new Imec design pathfinding PDK uses all the tools in Cadence's arsenal to create and validate the Open PDK, ensuring academia and industry partners have access to a complete Cadence flow at the most advanced nodes."