STMicroelectronics and Synopsys Partner to Develop Next-Generation, C-Based System Level Design Solution for Complex Systems on a Chip

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STMicroelectronics and Synopsys Partner to Develop Next-Generation, C-Based System Level Design Solution for Complex Systems on a Chip

MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif.----Dec. 6, 1999-- Synopsys, Inc. (Nasdaq:SNPS) and STMicroelectronics (NYSE:STM - ) announced today a three-year partnership to develop an advanced system level design solution for complex Systems on a Chip (SoC).

Both companies are combining their tools, technologies, and expertise to create a comprehensive C-based design solution. These tools will first be validated in pilot projects, and then be released to STMicroelectronics' design teams and customers.

``In order to maintain our leadership position in the area of complex system-on-chip designs for the rapidly evolving consumer, telecom, computing and automotive markets, we are convinced we need to proactively drive the specification and development of the next generation of SoC tools and methods,'' said Joel Monnier, Corporate Vice President of STMicroelectronics' Central R&D organization. ``For this reason, STMicroelectronics has decided to join forces with Synopsys and mutually benefit from each others leading edge expertise in SoC design, tools, and methodologies.''

The initial focus of this partnership is developing a C-based system level hardware/software co-design, co-verification, and performance analysis environment for complex SoCs. Great emphasis is placed on providing a high quality-of-results (QoR) implementation path into silicon from the system level, as well as enabling the rapid prototyping of complex SoCs.

To achieve this, STMicroelectronics and Synopsys are leveraging the recently released SystemC(TM) modeling platform (http://www.SystemC.org/), a class-library-based extension of the C++ programming language. SystemC provides the necessary constructs to describe the hardware, software, and system aspects of a complex SoC and its operating environment.

A key requirement for the successful design of SoCs is the ability to exchange system level IP and executable specifications written in SystemC between system houses, IP companies, and semiconductors vendors. The open and vendor-independent nature of the SystemC initiative delivers the solution to this requirement.

Under this partnership, STMicroelectronics and Synopsys are giving special attention to the rapidly growing area of digital signal processing applications. The companies are creating an advanced tool suite that addresses the unique challenges of developing software for fixed-point digital signal processors (DSPs).

By combining leading edge C compilers currently in use at STMicroelectronics together with revolutionary floating-point to fixed-point design technology already under development at Synopsys, the companies will enable STMicroelectronics' customers to dramatically accelerate one of the most time consuming tasks when developing software for a fixed-point DSP.

``The selection of Synopsys as a strategic partner was based on the following strengths. Their leadership position in a broad range of SoC related design technologies, from system-level specification and verification to co-design and co-verification, combined with their impressive track record in the path to implementation via synthesis, and their pioneering role in system-level platforms for key applications such as GSM and 3rd generation wireless design make Synopsys a very strong partner,'' said Philippe Magarshack, Vice-President Design Automation and Libraries at STMicroelectronics' Central R&D. ``The early successes we are seeing when applying the new floating-point to fixed-point design technology, as well as the successful development of a multi-level verification flow which allows us to run embedded software against its system level specification show we made the right decision.''

``The efficient design of complex Systems on a Chip requires new design flows and new tools supporting these flows,'' said Joachim Kunkel, vice president and general manager of Synopsys' System Level Design business unit. ``Working together with STMicroelectronics we are integrating some of the world's most advanced system level design technologies into a comprehensive design solution for Systems on a Chip. Through this partnership, ST's customers, who are creating some of today's most exciting SoC based electronic systems, will be the first to leverage this advanced technology and benefit from a new level of productivity.''

About STMicroelectronics

STMicroelectronics (formerly SGS-THOMSON Microelectronics) is a global independent semiconductor company, whose shares are traded on the New York Stock Exchange, on the Bourse de Paris and on the Milan Stock Exchange. The Company designs, develops, manufactures and markets a broad range of semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs) and discrete devices used in a wide variety of microelectronics applications, including telecommunications systems, computer systems, consumer products, automotive products and industrial automation and control systems. Further information on ST can be found at www.st.com.

About Synopsys

Synopsys Inc. (Nasdaq:SNPS), is the leading supplier of electronic design automation (EDA) products and services to the global electronic market. The company provides comprehensive design technologies to creators of advanced integrated circuits, electronic systems and systems on a chip. Synopsys also provides consulting services and support to its customers to streamline the overall design process and accelerate time-to-market. Additional information about Synopsys is available at http://www.synopsys.com.

Note to Editors: Synopsys and SystemC is a registered trademark. All other trademarks or registered trademarks mentioned in this release are the intellectual property of their respective owners.

Contact:
     Synopsys, Inc.
     Catherine Glines-Dickson, 650/584-4170
     glines@synopsys.com
            or
     STMicroelectronics
     Richard Stockdill, +33 4 5040 2558
     richard.stockdill@st.com