A 14nm test chip of ARM’s Cortex-A7 processor is the first to be taped out for Samsung’s 14nm FinFET process. The A7, which is more energy-efficient than any of the company’s other applications processors, will be the first to use the 14nm FinFET process. This achievement represents part of a systematic program to enable ARM technology-based SoCs on FinFET technology. In addition to the ARM Cortex-A7 processor, the test chip contains ARM Artisan standard-cell libraries, next-generation memories, and general-purpose I/Os. The chip was designed using a complete Cadence RTL-to-signoff flow that includes Encounter RTL Compiler, Encounter Test, Encounter Digital Implementation System, Cadence QRC Extraction, Encounter Timing System and Encounter Power System. Dr. Dipesh Patel, vice president and general manager of ARM’s Physical IP Division, says that the tapeout is an important milestone in ARM’s efforts to enable its silicon partners to develop future generations of low-power, energy-efficient mobile products.
ARM
Samsung
Cadence
