A programmable logic core (PLC) can be integrated into custom ICs such as
ASICs and SOCs using a unique design methodology. For example, the
methodology can incorporate the PLC into the entire ASIC design process
from chip level RTL to final tape-out and resolve issues ranging from RTL
guidelines through to sub-micron signal integrity. The post-manufacture
programming flow is considered up-front during the ASIC flow and tools
ensure successful programming in the field environment for the lifetime of
the product. An example PLC architecture for integration into a custom IC
includes a Multi Scale Array (MSA) that consists of an array of
configurable ALUs and is implemented as a hard macro, an Application
Circuit Interface (ACI) that provides signal interface between the MSA and
application circuitry and is included in the same hard macro, and a PLC
Adapter that initiates and loads the PLC configuration data and interfaces
that is implemented as a soft-macro.
