Faster, More Collaborative SoC and Chiplet Architecture Exploration: Introducing Synopsys Platform Architect Development Kit (PADK)

Systems-on-chip (SoCs) and chiplet-based semiconductors continue to grow in complexity. With multi-die architectures, AI accelerators, and increasing memory bandwidth becoming the norm, it’s more important than ever to address performance and power early in the design cycle.

Traditional architecture exploration approaches like spreadsheets, RTL simulation, and ad hoc communication are slow and manually intensive, often resulting in fragmented workflows and delayed feedback. Simply put, these antiquated methods can no longer support today’s pace of silicon innovation.

To streamline early-stage architecture exploration, we recently introduced the Synopsys Platform Architect Development Kit (PADK), a web-based collaboration framework that extends the proven capabilities of Platform Architect into a more accessible, interactive, and role-based environment for architecture design teams.

Improving collaboration, speed, and flexibility

Though applicable across industries, PADK is particularly valuable in fast-evolving sectors like automotive, AI acceleration, and HPC. Ultimately, it helps teams make better architectural choices, faster.

PADK reshapes how architecture teams explore and align around early design decisions by removing long feedback cycles and unlocking more agile interaction.

• Instead of waiting days or weeks for simulation experts to process new workloads, users can run their own experiments directly through the browser and get immediate insight into performance impacts.
• PADK’s cloud-ready architecture supports distributed teams without the complexity of local tool installations or IT setup.
• Role-based access control ensures each user — whether an architect, project manager, or external partner — only engages with the data appropriate to their role. This includes secure collaboration, data encryption, and selective sharing across company boundaries.