Synopsys OptoCompiler and Synopsys OptSim 2023.03-SP1

Enhancements and Fixes

• OptoCompiler Python module:
  • Added support for partial curves, creating only a portion of the center path
  • Added support for offset curves, enabling new shapes to follow the center path of a given curve at a distance
  • Added accessor methods for parameters of built-in width functors
  • Added ability to query path lengths of (parts of) curves
  • Added ‘Ref’ port to CenterPath element
  • Shapes are now not calculated until the ‘draw’ function is called.
• Fixed a few crashes
• Fixed bug in back-annotation when using arbitrary port names

Synopsys OptSim

• New transmitter dispersion eye-closure quaternary (TDECQ) analysis block. In data center optics, 4-level Pulse Amplitude Modulation (PAM-4) signaling is gradually overtaking Non-Return to Zero (NRZ) signaling. Prior versions of OptSim supported modeling of PAM4 systems. IEEE 802.3bs describes an important performance measure for PAM4 links, namely, Transmitter Dispersion Eye Closure Quaternary (TDECQ). The new model enables measurement of TDECQ in high-speed PAM4 links.
• Usability and documentation improvements and updates
  • Simulation speed improvements for E-O co-simulation
  • Documentation update: Updates to the models’ reference manual

We would like to highlight Advanced Micro Foundry (AMF), a specialty commercial foundry dedicated to silicon photonics, located in Singapore.

AMF offers reliable and predictable foundry services, with a sustained focus on safety, quality, delivery and its customers.

In addition to standard wafer manufacturing services, AMF also offers 6 Multiple Project Wafers (MPW) shuttles per year, active and passive, in Silicon-on-Insulator (SOI) and in Silicon Nitride-on-SOI. AMF’s proposition also includes wafer level packaging solutions to facilitate the integration of your photonic chip into a final product.

Synopsys and AMF have been working together for many years to develop PDKs for Synopsys OptoDesigner and to support mutual customers. Recently, the two companies worked closely together to expand the PDKs to include DRC and LVS decks for Synopsys IC Validator physical verification solution and to enable design implementation with Synopsys OptoCompiler. All the photonic productivity features, like the flexible single and bus waveguide connectors, seamless abutment, and photonic auto-align have been enabled. Also, metal auto-routing is now available for the various technology platforms AMF provides. With this, customers can reduce design turnaround times and improve quality of results.