What are Chiplets?

How Do Chiplets Work?

Chiplets work by leveraging standard and advanced packaging technologies and high-speed interconnects to integrate multiple heterogeneous or homogeneous dies into a single package. Here’s a deeper look into how chiplets function within a multi-die design:

Modular Design

Chiplets are designed as modular building blocks, each performing a specific function. For example:

• CPU Chiplets: Handle general-purpose processing tasks.
• GPU Chiplets: Manage graphics and parallel computing tasks.
• Memory Chiplets: Provide high-speed memory access.
• I/O Chiplets: Manage input/output operations.

Interconnects

The key to a successful chiplet design lies in the interconnect technology. High-speed interconnects, such as UCIe (Universal Chiplet Interconnect Express), enable efficient communication between chiplets. These interconnects ensure high bandwidth, low latency, and power efficiency, making the chiplet approach viable for high-performance applications.

Advanced Packaging

Advanced packaging techniques, such as 2.5D and 3D integration, are used to assemble chiplets within a single package. These techniques allow for closer proximity between chiplets, reducing the distance that signals need to travel and improving overall performance.

Standard Packaging

In addition to advanced packaging, standard packaging techniques are also utilized in multi-die designs. Standard packaging involves more conventional methods of assembling and housing semiconductor components, which can be particularly useful for certain types of applications. Examples of standard packaging include wire bonding, flip-chiop, and lead frame. Standard packaging provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for integrating chiplets, especially in applications where advanced packaging techniques may not be necessary.

Heterogeneous Integration

One of the most significant advantages of chiplet technology is the ability to integrate heterogeneous components. Designers can combine chiplets fabricated using different process technologies, such as combining a high-performance logic chiplet with a high-density memory chiplet, to achieve the best of both worlds.

Design and Verification

Designing and verifying chiplet-based systems requires specialized tools and methodologies. Design tools must support the modular nature of chiplets, allowing for easy integration and optimization of each component. Verification tools are crucial for ensuring that all chiplets work together seamlessly, meeting the required performance and reliability standards.

Synopsys is at the forefront of semiconductor innovation, providing cutting-edge solutions that empower our customers to achieve their design goals. Our expertise in chiplet technology, combined with our comprehensive and scalable multi-die solution, makes us the ideal partner for your next-generation chip designs. We are committed to supporting our customers through every stage of the design process, from initial concept to final production.