Advantest Introduces SiConic Test Engineering
Leading semiconductor test equipment supplier Advantest Corporation (TSE: 6857) has unveiled SiConic Test Engineering (TE), a cutting-edge addition to the SiConic family that enhances efficiency and collaboration among test engineers. This innovative platform, recently revealed, provides robust solutions for structural and functional testing across high-speed I/O (HSIO) interfaces in a scalable bench environment.
Enhanced Functionality and Flexibility
One of the standout features of SiConic TE is its compatibility with standard evaluation boards, which connect seamlessly through functional interfaces such as USB and PCIe, among others. This adaptability allows test engineers to validate and debug design verification (DV) and design for test (DFT) processes swiftly within SiConic's comprehensive environment, all without dedicating significant resources to automatic test equipment (ATE) systems.
Boosting Productivity with Unified Systems
Building on the success of the V93000 test system, which excels in scan testing via USB or PCIe, SiConic TE offers testers direct access to DV content without the cumbersome cycle of error-prone conversions commonly associated with functional testing on ATE. This optimized approach not only improves verification quality and test coverage but also enhances productivity during collaborative bench sessions of DV, DFT, and test engineering, leading to faster quality assurances.
Fostering Collaboration Across Teams
SiConic TE integrates effectively with both SiConic Link hardware and the SmarTest 8 software platform, providing users with unparalleled access to functional HSIO links, which in turn fosters more efficient test execution. By streamlining the interaction between silicon validation (SV), DV, and test engineering teams, SiConic TE enhances cross-domain collaboration significantly, further improving testing processes.
Integration with EDA Partners for Seamless Flow
Advantest's commitment to a shared ecosystem promotes harmony between bench, ATE, and SLT systems, creatively alleviating pressure on tester capacity while facilitating smoother debugging processes. In collaboration with leading electronic design automation (EDA) partners, Advantest has ensured that SiConic TE is fully integrated into existing design workflows, thus enhancing test content development and expediting time to market.
Community and Industry Acknowledgment
Juergen Serrer, Advantest’s chief technology officer, emphasized the purpose of SiConic TE: “We’re expanding the SiConic vision to empower engineers in a unified environment.” This statement underscores the goal of streamlining validation processes, encouraging quicker collaboration, and optimizing engineering resources on the bench.
Industry leaders like TechInsights’ G. Dan Hutcheson have also recognized the importance of Advantest’s advancements, acknowledging that improved R&D productivity is crucial for design engineers. Hutcheson points out that Advantest's automated approach facilitates concurrent progress in sign-off and test engineering, thereby accelerating system-on-chip (SoC) designs.
Strategic Collaborations Enhancing Capabilities
The development of SiConic TE involved close collaboration with key industry players, ensuring that it meets the evolving needs of the market. Ankur Gupta from Siemens EDA highlighted the long-standing partnership that brings fruitful advancements in DFT technologies, further solidifying the benefits of their joint initiatives.
Furthermore, Tom De Schutter of Synopsys reinforces the synergy between Advantest's SiConic platform and Synopsys’ solutions, which are designed to deliver efficient testing and validation processes while improving product quality.
Upcoming Events Featuring SiConic
Those interested in exploring the SiConic family of products further can learn more at Advantest’s annual VOICE Developer Conference, providing an excellent opportunity to engage with the latest innovations from Advantest.
About Advantest Corporation
Advantest Corporation (TSE: 6857) stands at the forefront of manufacturing automatic test and measurement equipment essential for semiconductor design and production. Their technology is pivotal across various applications, from 5G communications to artificial intelligence (AI). Founded in 1954 in Tokyo, Advantest remains dedicated to addressing emerging testing challenges while fostering sustainable practices globally. For more information, visit Advantest’s website.
Contact Information:
ADVANTEST CORPORATION
3061 Zanker Road
San Jose, CA 95134, USA
Cassandra Koenig
cassandra.koenig@advantest.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SiConic Test Engineering?
SiConic Test Engineering is Advantest's latest platform that provides a unified, scalable environment for semiconductor test engineers to validate and debug processes efficiently.
How does SiConic TE improve testing processes?
SiConic TE enhances collaboration and efficiency by allowing test engineers to conduct verification without over-relying on automatic test equipment, thus freeing up resources.
Who are Advantest’s partners in developing SiConic?
Advantest collaborated with various EDA partners, including Siemens EDA and Synopsys, to ensure seamless integration and enhanced functionalities in the SiConic platform.
What industries can benefit from SiConic Test Engineering?
Industries involved in semiconductor production and design, particularly in advanced technologies such as AI, IoT, and telecommunications, can benefit from SiConic TE.
When can I see more about SiConic offerings?
Interested parties can learn more about SiConic products at the upcoming VOICE Developer Conference hosted by Advantest.
