HETT406: Design of

Digital & VLSI Systems

Lecture 1: Course Overview

Prof E Mashonjowa
 Course Overview
◼ This course is an introduction to concepts associated with the
analysis and design of integrated circuits (ICs) in state of the art
CMOS technologies.

◼ It provides an introduction to the design and implementation of

VLSI circuits for complex digital systems.

◼ In this course, we will study the fundamental concepts and

structures of designing digital VLSI systems (including CMOS
devices and circuits), standard CMOS fabrication processes,
CMOS design rules, static and dynamic logic structures,
interconnect analysis, CMOS chip layout, simulation and
testing, low power techniques, design tools and methodologies,
VLSI architecture, etc.
2
 Course Aim

◼ The course is designed to give you an

understanding of the different design steps
required to carry out a complete digital Very-
Large-Scale Integration (VLSI) design in silicon.

3
 Intended Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, you should be able to:
i. Use mathematical methods and circuit analysis models in
analysis of CMOS digital electronics circuits, including logic
components and their interconnect.
ii. Create models of moderately sized CMOS circuits that realize
specified digital functions.
iii. Apply CMOS technology-specific layout rules in the placement
and routing of transistors and interconnect, and to verify the
functionality, timing, power, and parasitic effects.
iv. Demonstrate an understanding of the characteristics of CMOS
circuit construction and the comparison between different
state-of-the-art CMOS technologies and processes.
v. Complete a significant VLSI design project having a set of
objective criteria and design constraints.
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Topics
1. Semiconductor Devices and Technology
2. CMOS Logic, fabrication and layout
3. MOS Transistor Theory
4. Analog IC Characterization
5. Circuit Simulation
6. Combinational Circuit Design
7. Sequential Circuit Design

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Assessment
Course Component Weight
Continuous Assessment 30%
• Tests and Assignments 15%
• Laboratory, seminars & projects 15%
Final Examination 70%

• To obtain a passing grade in the course, a mark of 50%

or more must be achieved on the final examination as
well as on the continuous assessment.
• A final examination or laboratory mark less than 50% will
result in a final course grade of 48% or less.