Synopsys Inc. announced that Oticon has standardized on Synopsys' Galaxy(TM) Implementation Platform and Lynx Design System for low power implementation. The advanced capabilities and extensive support for IEEE-1801 Unified Power Format (UPF) in the Synopsys(R) solution enabled Oticon to meet an aggressive 400 microwatt power budget while operating well below one volt for its next-generation multi-core DSP-based IC. Oticon had to overcome design challenges including: Stringent Power Budgets: The design supply voltage is set to a lower voltage than typical portable applications, adding an additional level of complexity.

Ensuring consistent, safe operation with long battery life is a key aspect of portable medical devices such as a hearing aid. Multi-Scenario Implementation and Analysis: Signoff closure required concurrent optimization across more than 200 multi-corner, multi-mode (MCMM) scenarios. The Synopsys Galaxy Implementation Platform for low power design is a comprehensive, silicon-proven solution with power-awareness built in throughout the design cycle.

When combined with the Discovery(TM) Verification Platform, advanced low power designs can be verified, implemented and analyzed for signoff. The Lynx Design System is a complete chip design environment that includes a tapeout-proven, production-ready design flow enabled by tools in the Galaxy Implementation Platform.