Orbit launches 'no-vector' conversion service

Electronic News, April 15, 1996

Sunnyvale, Calif.--Orbit Semiconductor launched a service designed to enable OEMs to convert field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) to gate arrays even if they don't have test vectors to work from.

The No-Vector program provides automatic test pattern generation (ATPG), initially for Xilinx FPGAs and Advanced Micro Devices MACH programmable logic devices (PLDs). According to Brian Gillings, who was named VP of marketing at Orbit last November, Orbit began beta testing the new service late last year and has already done seven conversions under the No-Vector program.

"Altera's tools are good and most people have vectors. Xilinx people don't, and vectors are what you need" for conversion, Mr. Gillings said. That situation may change, however, in light of Xilinx' recent introduction of the Foundation series design tools suite (EN, April 1 and 8).

Programmable logic design tools have been said to be a weak area in the PLD market--an area that is getting increasing attention as PLD companies attempt to distinguish themselves in this highly competitive market. Echoing that thinking, Mr. Gillings said: "In the tools area, there needs to be a lot of work done." He added that Orbit is trying to do its part by finding the weaknesses in the system. "Essentially, we're trying to make the circuits break," he said.

"Benefits for Orbit are increased conversion opportunities and increased value-added engineering opportunities," Mr. Gillings said, adding that using its ATPG tools, Orbit is able to do conversions for customers without test vectors usually on the first try. "Our re-spin rate is less than 10 percent," he noted.

The No-Vector process adds about a week to the full conversion process, bringing the total time required for a conversion to between five and seven weeks, and adding $5,000 to $7,000 to the total conversion cost.

Orbit's basic fees include non-recurring engineering charges ranging from $8,000 to $15,000--charges Mr. Gillings said are not assessed until the design is completed. Minimum cost for a conversion, including the NRE and shipment of the first order, is $40,000. Current customers for Orbit conversions that might also be interested in the No-Vector program include Apple Computer, Maxim Integrated Products and National Semiconductor.

Orbits plans to expand its ATPG service to cover other vendors' devices, including Altera and Actel. There are no plans to go after AT&T or QuickLogic conversions at this time, Mr. Gillings said.