Internet-based CAD Methods for Future Complex Microelectronic Systems 1

2.1 Main Objectives The main objective of the project is aimed at setting up the frame for an efficient brazilian/german internetbased CAD environment for promoting cooperative research, development and training activities among partner institutions both countries in the design of dependable microelectronics systems, which is one of the most dynamically developing fields of application. The main results of the project will be: establishing of a new type of active Research & Development Network called DInCAD and new cooperative results in design, research and teaching achieved by joint use of resources and environment of this internet-based system. As a general result of the project, a synergistic link is created between partners active in different related research and teaching activities, like microelectronics design, design methodologies, software/hardware co-design and test generation for reaching new dimensions in the quality and dependability of tomorrow’s computing systems. This link provides new opportunities for increasing the design quality in terms of higher dependability of the created systems and reduced time-to-market, which is also tried to realize in USA [CSN98]. DInCAD offers the basis for a new quality in cooperative research by facilitating immediate exchange of information, sharing of software tools and resources (computing power), enabling joint work on research projects and practical designs, providing access to libraries, benchmarks, design examples etc., and serving as a source of information not only for partners, but also for all other interested persons and institutions, including national industries with emphasis also on SMEs.