Journal of Research in VLSI Design Tools and Technology ISSN: 3139-2016 (Online)

Authors: Meera Raghavan, Tanvi G. Ramesh, Rohit P. Chakravarthy,

Abstract:  The semiconductor industry has traditionally been dominated by proprietary Electronic Design Automation (EDA) tools, limiting access to high-end chip design for smaller companies, academic institutions, and individual developers. The emergence of open source EDA tools has started to transform this landscape, enabling a more democratized approach to chip design. This paper explores the development and impact of open source EDA tools, their role in reducing barriers to entry, and the challenges faced in adopting these tools. We discuss the potential for innovation, cost reduction, and education, as well as the limitations and areas for future research. By analyzing both technical and social implications, this paper argues that open source EDA represents a crucial step towards inclusive and widespread semiconductor innovation.

Keywords: Open source EDA, chip design democratization, semiconductor innovation, open hardware, design accessibility, low-cost chip design, academic tools.