SPEF {Standard Parasatics Extraction Format}
In VLSI (Very-Large-Scale Integration) design, a SPEF file stands for Standard Parasitic
Exchange Format. It is a file format used to represent the parasitic information of a chip's
layout, including the resistance (R), capacitance (C), and inductance (L) of interconnects and
vias. This parasitic information is crucial for accurate timing analysis, signal integrity analysis,
and power analysis of the chip.
Key Points about SPEF Files:
1. Purpose:
o SPEF files are used to provide detailed parasitic information that is necessary for
post-layout analysis. They contain information about the parasitic effects in the
interconnects (wires and vias) between different components (gates, cells, etc.) in
the chip.
o These parasitics impact the performance of the circuit (e.g., delay and power
consumption), so they need to be accounted for during verification and analysis.
2. Contents:
o Capacitance (C): Describes the capacitance between two adjacent conductors,
such as wires and metal layers.
o Resistance (R): Describes the resistance of the interconnects, which can impact
the delay and power consumption of the circuit.
o Inductance (L): In some cases, inductance effects are included, especially in
high-speed designs or designs with large or long metal traces.
3. Format: The SPEF file is typically in a text format and is structured to represent the
parasitics in a hierarchical way, reflecting the layout's connectivity and corresponding
parasitic values. It follows a standard format for interchange between different EDA tools
(like Cadence, Synopsys, etc.).
A typical SPEF file might look like this:
(SPEF)
(VERSION 1.0)
(DESIGN example_design)
(TIMING_REFERENCE rising_edge)
(LIBRARY cell_lib)
(PARASITIC)
(INTERCONNECT (WIRE wire_name)
(R 1.234)
(C 2.345)
(L 0.678))
(INTERCONNECT (WIRE wire_name_2)
(R 0.456)
(C 1.789))
)
Here, the file would describe various wires in the design, with each wire having
associated resistance (R), capacitance (C), and possibly inductance (L).
4. Use in Design Flow:
o Timing Analysis: Tools like PrimeTime from Synopsys or Tempus from
Cadence can use the SPEF file to perform static timing analysis (STA). The
parasitics influence the delay of signals as they propagate through the
interconnects, and accurate parasitics are essential for correct timing predictions.
o Signal Integrity: Parasitic capacitances and resistances also affect signal
integrity, influencing issues like crosstalk or noise.
o Power Analysis: Parasitic capacitance leads to dynamic power dissipation during
signal transitions.
5. Generation:
o Post-Layout Extraction: After the layout of the circuit is completed, parasitic
extraction tools generate the SPEF file based on the final physical design, taking
into account the actual wire lengths, widths, and spacing.
o Tools: Tools like StarRC (Synopsys), Calibre (Mentor Graphics), or Quantus
(Cadence) are commonly used for parasitic extraction and generating SPEF files.
Importance:
Accuracy in Timing Analysis: The accuracy of the SPEF file directly impacts the
reliability of the timing analysis and the overall performance of the chip.
Signal Integrity and Reliability: Parasitic effects can cause delays, crosstalk, or even
signal degradation if not properly accounted for.
Example Use Case:
In a VLSI design flow, after the place and route step, the design's physical layout is analyzed
for parasitic elements (resistance, capacitance, inductance). A SPEF file is generated and used
for timing sign-off, which checks if the design meets timing requirements. If any delays are
found, they are adjusted either by changing the design or improving the parasitics, and a new
SPEF file is generated for re-analysis.
In summary, the SPEF file is an essential part of the VLSI design process, enabling accurate
analysis and optimization of a chip's interconnect parasitics, which affect both performance and
reliability.
