Ansys RaptorH vs. Ansys PathFinder

Ansys RaptorH is an advanced tool for electromagnetic modeling that specializes in simulating power grids, unique components, spiral inductors, and clock trees. With its cutting-edge distributed processing technology, it accurately generates silicon-validated S-parameter and RLCk models, ensuring high fidelity in simulations. Throughout the design phase, RaptorH is capable of assessing both partial and incomplete layouts, giving users the flexibility to select between the adaptable HFSS engine and the silicon-optimized RaptorX engine specifically designed for distinct silicon architectures. The software stands out by extracting electromagnetic models during the pre-LVS stage for a variety of routing and layout configurations, supporting solid or perforated planes, circular geometries, spiral inductors, and MiM/MoM capacitors, while also automatically setting boundary conditions. Its intuitive graphical interface allows for straightforward net selection via point-and-click actions and accommodates exploratory what-if analyses. Additionally, RaptorH is compatible with all major silicon foundries and can handle encrypted technology files, empowering users to perform analyses efficiently with either the HFSS or Raptor engine. This comprehensive software solution not only enhances the design workflow but also fosters collaboration among engineers and designers, ultimately driving innovation in electromagnetic design.

Ansys PathFinder-SC is a powerful and high-capacity tool specifically created for the effective planning, validation, and approval of IP and full-chip SoC designs, ensuring their durability and dependability against electrostatic discharge (ESD). By identifying the key elements that lead to design issues potentially resulting in chip failures due to occurrences like charged-device models (CDM) and human body models (HBM), Ansys PathFinder-SC provides essential insights for improvements. Its cloud-native architecture leverages the capabilities of thousands of computing cores, allowing for rapid full-chip turnaround times. Additionally, this solution has achieved certification from prominent foundries for performing current density evaluations and ESD approvals. With an all-encompassing integrated data modeling, extraction, and transient simulation engine, PathFinder-SC presents a streamlined end-to-end process for ESD verification. The tool utilizes a single-pass model that efficiently interprets standard design formats, sets ESD criteria, extracts resistive-capacitive (RC) values for the power network, and conducts ESD simulations to explore root causes, ultimately offering actionable recommendations for corrections and optimizations—all within a unified application. This comprehensive level of integration not only boosts operational efficiency but also significantly enhances the reliability of chip designs, making it an indispensable resource for engineers in the field. Moreover, the continuous updates and support ensure that users remain equipped with the latest advancements in ESD verification technology.