In modern chip design, circuit design and algorithm implementation are inseparable. Simply put, chips are not just logical structures made up of gates and flip-flops; they also carry various complex functions—such as communication modulation and demodulation, signal processing, image and video encoding and decoding—depending on higher-level mathematical and algorithmic knowledge.
01
Interdisciplinary Capability Supplementation
Traditional digital circuit engineers excel at handling hardware implementation issues such as timing, power consumption, and area, but when a chip’s functionality involves complex mathematical operations or signal processing, it becomes necessary to master the relevant theories and algorithms in those areas. Algorithm engineers act like “translators,” converting high-level mathematical models and theories into verifiable and simulable algorithm reference models, ensuring that the chip’s functionality meets expectations.
02
Providing Accurate Reference Modelsa
In the chip verification process, verification engineers need to compare against a “golden standard” to judge whether the circuit implementation is correct. For simple modules, it may be sufficient for verification engineers to write their own models; but for complex modules, especially those involving communication, multimedia processing, and other fields, writing an accurate and high-precision model often exceeds the capability of ordinary verification engineers. In such cases, algorithm engineers provide reference models written in languages like C, MATLAB, or Python to ensure the accuracy of functionality verification.
03
Connecting Algorithm Implementation with Hardware Implementation
Algorithm engineers not only need to focus on the theoretical correctness of algorithms but also consider how to efficiently map these algorithms onto hardware. For example, MATLAB provides many built-in functions that can be directly used, but in chip simulation, these functions may not be applicable or cannot generate corresponding library files. Algorithm engineers need to rewrite these algorithms and may even perform special handling of input and output formats (such as separating complex numbers into real and imaginary parts for separate transmission) to ensure they run correctly in hardware verification tools like VCS.
04
Improving Verification Efficiency and Accuracy
When chip functionality is complex, verification becomes more difficult and time-consuming. The reference models provided by algorithm engineers not only ensure higher computational accuracy but also help verification engineers quickly build verification platforms and thoroughly test the chip design through various stimuli. This process can be likened to cooking: algorithm engineers provide the standard recipe (reference model), while circuit engineers are responsible for turning the ingredients (hardware implementation) into a delicious dish. Only through effective collaboration can the final “dish” be of the highest quality.
05
Bridging Professional Knowledge Gaps
Integrated circuit design often involves cutting-edge technology, and relying solely on a background in circuit design is insufficient to cover all emerging fields of expertise. Algorithm engineers have deep theoretical knowledge and practical experience in areas like communication and image processing. Their involvement enables the chip design team to grasp the latest technologies more quickly and accurately, successfully applying them to the chip design.
In summary, algorithm engineers are crucial in chip design because they provide interdisciplinary expertise, build high-precision reference models, and ensure the correctness of algorithms in the design and verification process. This ensures that the chip not only meets functional expectations but also achieves optimal performance in practical applications. It is like a highly efficient orchestra: while musicians are skilled at playing instruments, the conductor understands music theory and orchestration. Only when each party plays their role and collaborates closely can the perfect symphony be produced.
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