Another point to consider about a snapshot is that in addition to the design files that make up the blocks in the hierarchy, it contains information regarding the tools used to create the files. "When you want to go back and recreate the tapeout of a specific design, the design data is no good without the tools that were used to create it," explains Jones. "You want to bundle together a snapshot of all the tools and all the scripts you had, including the parameter files for these tools, along with the entire design hierarchy."
For all of its inherent power, the HCM's real utility lies in its use with Synchronicity's existing tools. The HCM is being launched as part of an SoC Developer's Suite with updated versions of both DesignSync and ProjectSync.
DesignSync has within it a mechanism for defining collections of files, which could, for example, comprise the design data for an IP block. By tagging a set of related files at some revision level, DesignSync creates what's referred to as a "configuration." The process, though, is somewhat laborious and requires substantial insight into DesignSync's workings to achieve anything near a hierarchical level of data organization. HCM provides a set of commands that bring DesignSync's capabilities to fruition in the hierarchical sense, while hiding the file-level details from users.
Similarly, the HCM ties in with ProjectSync by bringing a hierarchical format to the management of collaboration-related data. ProjectSync tracks notes and other documents related to a design project, especially those related to bugs and their status. On its own, ProjectSync would only let users see one level of the hierarchy at a given time. When used with the HCM, it makes the hierarchical aspect possible (Fig. 2).
The HCM also has a role in conjunction with Synchronicity's IP Gear product. IP Gear is a repository for IP that provides a foundation for a complete IP reuse infrastructure. The HCM is a system for works in progress that facilitates the creation of new IP and its integration with other blocks. Eventually, HCM will let users export pieces of IP or even entire new designs and capture them in an IP-Gear-based repository. For now, users can leverage existing IP in an IP-Gear repository for use in a current design project.
Price & Availability
The Standard Developer Suite consists of the DesignSync design management tool and ProjectSync project collaboration tool. Available this month, it will cost $4500. The SoC Developer Suite adds the Hierarchical Configuration Manager. It will be available for customer evaluation and early adoption this month, with general availability in February 2002. The SoC Developer Suite will run less than $5500. Current users of DesignSync and ProjectSync will be able to add the HCM for under $1000. HCM 1.0 will be supported on Solaris 2.6, 7, and 8; HP-UX 10.2; and HP-UX 11 (32- and 64-bit mode). All prices are for a single perpetual license.
Synchronicity Inc., 201 Forest St., Marlboro, MA 01752; (508) 485-4122; fax (508) 485-7514; www.synchronicity.com.