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TSMC, the world’s largest semiconductor foundry, has joined the Interoperable PDK Libraries (IPL) Alliance. The Alliance aims to standardize process design kits (PDKs - sets of foundry-verified data files for analog and mixed signal design flow) to create uniformity in design flows for customers across the board. Specialized PDKs for individual EDA vendors and tools can lead to uniformity problems further down the line when multiple vendors and customers are involved. 

TSMC’s joining the Alliance will drive this need for standardization of PDKs, as it is the first foundry to join and. The ultimate aim of the Appliance is the reduction in cost and promotion of reuse, and ultimately creating an ease of access to new designs and technologies.

"TSMC is committed to an interoperable PDK format that maintains design accuracy throughout the custom design cycle," said S.T. Juang, Senior Director of design infrastructure marketing at TSMC. "An interoperable standard promotes reuse and reduces PDK development cost. It also promotes open innovation, enables customization and improves productivity and efficiency. As an IPL Alliance member, we look forward to participating in the advancement of PDK standards."