News and New Products

Autorouter adds command-language syntax checker

By Gabe Moretti -- EDN, 8/21/2003

A mistake in the script that commands the operation of an EDA tool can sometimes introduce errors in a design. These errors are difficult to find because their cause is not readily apparent from the design data. DFM, a third-party supplier of products and services for the Cadence (www.cadence.com) Specctra autorouter, has introduced two new products that address these problems: MakeDo E and MakeDo E+.

MakeDo E allows designers to check the syntax of the Do file language in a stand-alone Windows environment. It allows designers to batch-check the entire Do file in a single review pass. MakeDo E recognizes keywords, commands, and comments in the language lists and outputs-error reports, and it automatically highlights and flags errors for immediate correction. It supports the creation and editing of files. MakeDo E+ reads Specctra DSN files and extracts complete netlist, pin list, and component data. Syntax data-integrity checking of Do files includes net names; from to; and ordered topology, refdef, and pin-name checking. Specctra syntax-sensitive AutoCode hints and completion, AutoWord completion, AutoSymbol completion, automatic brace matching, and bookmarks help guide designers in developing and editing Do files.

MakeDO E is available free to all Specctra users who have a current maintenance contract. Customers receive one free copy of the product for each license of Specctra under maintenance. Users not on current maintenance can purchase a license for $500. MakeDo E+ sells for $1095.

DFM, 1-866-586-9352, www.eautoroute.com.