Question 1

What technologies are available in the TSMC University FinFET Program?

Accepted Answer

TSMC's 16nm FFC and 7nm FF technologies are available for University research. Access to the TSMC PDK includes standard cell libraries, I/O libraries, and SRAM compilers.
TSMC is also offering access to a 16nm PDK for teaching a class. The 16nm PDK for classroom use does not support fabrication but is a complete PDK with all deliverables and IP libraries. The 16nm PDK for classroom use is referred to as the 16nm ADFP (Academic Design Foster Package).

Question 2

What legal agreements are required to access the technology?

Accepted Answer

A 3-way NDA is required. The 3-way NDA enables access to the PDK and IP libraries. This is a separate 3-way NDA from your Universities existing 3-way NDA.

Individuals are also required to sign an acknowledgement form before accessing TSMC Confidential Information.

Question 3

How will I access the PDK?

Accepted Answer

Universities install the TSMC PDKs on their servers.

The 16nm PDK and 16nm ADFP (Academic Design Foster Package) may be installed on the University Servers configured to enable access only to authorized individuals.

The 7nm PDK has additional installation requirements to protect TSMC's Confidential Information. The 7nm PDK is required to be installed in an isolated environment that is not connected to the rest of the University's network and IT infrastructure. The 7nm PDK will be accessible only from a room on the University's premises with identity-based entrance controls and audiovisual monitoring systems.

Question 4

May I teach a class using the TSMC PDK?

Accepted Answer

Yes! TSMC has created a special version of the TSMC 16nm FFC PDK especially for class room instruction. The special class room PDK is know as the Academic Design Foster Package (ADFP). The 16nm ADFP is a complete PDK including frontend and backend foundation IP deliverables. However, the 16nm ADFP will not support fabrication. In addition to the PDK TSMC also provides tutorial design cases and training materials to support your class.

Question 5

What is the price and minimum area?

Accepted Answer

16nm ADFP PDK access fee: $1,000

16nm Full Block minimum area: 4mm2
16nm Full Block price: $75,000 ($18,750/mm2)

16nm Shared Block minimum area: 1mm2
16nm Shared Block price: $23,000/mm2

7nm Full Block minimum area: 2mm2
7nm Full Block price: $62,000 ($31,000/mm2)

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