- Continuation and advancement of hands-on semiconductor human resource development
- Providing opportunities for actual chip manufacturing and verification using NDA-free PDK
- Building a practical and highly reproducible education and implementation model through industry-academia integration
- In exchange for the cost support for this program, we will embed the company's logo on the prototype chip to spread awareness of semiconductor design human resource development as a social contribution activity
Apr 13, 2026
[OpenSUSI] Kicks off Five-Year Plan
Apr 10, 2026
[DATE2026] Open Source Related Talks
| Label | Title | Authors |
|---|---|---|
| TS02.8 | ML-DSA-OSH: An Efficient, Open-Source Hardware Implementation of ML-DSA | Quinten Norga; Suparna Kundu; Ingrid Verbauwhede |
| LK03 | Democratizing Silicon: The Rise of Open-Source EDA and Europe’s Strategic Roadmap | Luca Benini |
| TS10.1 | PICOSNN: Partially Incoherent Configurable Optical Computing Architecture for SNN Acceleration | Bowen Duan; Zhenhua Zhu; Zhengyang Duan; Huazhong Yang; Yuan Xie; Yu Wang |
| TS16.1 | Non-Volatile Spintronic Flip-Flops with Checkpoint Preservation Supported in RISC-V Platform | Jiongzhe Su; Mingtao Chen; Zhanpeng Qiu; Bo Liu; Hao Cai |
| LBR01.4 | Float Fight - Verifying Floating-Point Behavior In Risc-V Simulators | Katharina Ruep, Manfred Schlaegl and Daniel Grosse |
| LBR01.7 | Hybrid Virtual Platform + FPGA Co-Emulation Framework | Lorenzo Ruotolo; Giovanni Pollo; Mohamed Amine Hamdi; Matteo Risso; Yukai Chen; Enrico Macii; Massimo Poncino; Sara Vinco; Alessio Burrello; Daniele Jahier Pagliari |
| TS20.1 | Fault-Tolerance Mapping of Spiking Neural Networks to RRAM-Based Neuromorphic Hardware | Yuqing Xiong; Chao Xiao; Zhijie Yang; Lei Wang; Mengying Zhao |
| TS21.4 | Substrate: A Statically Typed Framework for Designing Highly Configurable Analog and Mixed-Signal Circuit Generators | Rahul Kumar; Rohan Kumar; Borivoje Nikolic |
| SD03 | Open-Source Hardware Landscape | |
| SD03.1 | Open Silicon Fabrication – Made in Europe | Gerhard Kahmen, IHP GmbH, DE |
| SD03.2 | From Schematic To Silicon: Mixed Signal Ic Design In Open Source Flows | Harald Pretl, JKU Linz, AT |
| SD03.3 | Bringing Software Design Thinking To Chip Design | Tomi Rantakari, ChipFlow, GB |
Mar 2, 2026
Aalto Microelectronics Fair
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 8:30–9:00 | Morning coffee |
| 9:00–9:15 | Opening Aleksi Korsman |
| Keynotes | |
| 9:15–10:00 | Keynote 1: “OpenPDK - Global Scholar Platform”, Wladek Grabinski, Open PDK Initiative |
| 10:05–10:50 | Keynote 2: “Open Source Design Tools in SME IC Design Companies”, Ari Paasio, Kovilta |
| Research overviews | |
| 11:00–11:15 | Research overview: Kari Stadius |
| 11:15–11:30 | Research overview: Prof. Marko Kosunen |
| 11:30–11:45 | Research overview: Prof. Kwantae Kim |
| 11:45–12:45 | Lunch (and posters) |
| 12:45–13:15 | Student talk: “Five years of RISC‑V processor design at Aalto”, Aleksi Korsman |
| 13:15–13:45 | Student talk: “Beyond Neural Networks: Overcoming the Symbolic Bottleneck via Approximate Logarithm Acceleration”, Lingyun Yao |
| Posters | |
| 13:45–14:00 | Poster intro |
| 14:00–15:00 | Posters with coffee and snacks |
| 15:00–15:30 | Feedback and closing |
Should you have any questions, please email Marko Kosunen
Nov 15, 2025
[Free Session] Tokai Rika OpenPDK
| Time | Speaker | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| 12:50 | ISHI Club | 1F Gathering |
| 13:00 | ISHI Club | Opening |
| 13:00-13:30 | OpenSUSI | Overview of Tokai Rika Shuttle PDK and future plans |
| 13:30-14:30 | jun1okamura | Outline of the production of DRC and LVS of Tokai Rika Shuttle PDK and explanation of contents |
| 14:30-15:00 | OpenSUSI | Break & Information Exchange |
| 15:00-15:30 | Mitch Bailey | Detailed explanation of LVS (Japanese lecture) |
| 15:30-16:00 | Hota (SIG's Playground) | How to 🚶 walk through open source PDK: "What is PDK in the first place?" "Where do you want to "read" PDK? "If you want to make your own PDK, where do you start?" and "Examples of what you have done so far". |
| 16:00-16:30 | OpenSUSI | PDK Conversation: jun1okamura x Hota x Mitch Bailey: Mr. Hota, an expert in commercial PDK development at a major domestic company, and Mitch Bailey, an expert in open PDK who has been performing structural checks and PDK maintenance of GDS submitted by eFabless, etc. |
| 16:30-17:00 | OpenSUSI | PDK Conversation / Honest Edition (No more online streaming will be done from now on): Continuing from the above, we plan to talk about things that cannot be said publicly. In a sense, this may be the real thing. |
| 17:00 | ISHI Club | Closing |
https://discord.gg/Sj47dJk8x7https://discord.gg/RwAWF5mZSR
Sep 1, 2025
FOSSEE eSim Marathon – Circuit Design & Simulation with IHP SG13G2
Key Highlights:
- Tool Used: eSim - a free and open-source alternative to commercial circuit design tools
- OpenPDK Used: IHP SG13G2 - enables design of analog, digital, and RF circuits at 130 nm BiCMOS.
- Objective: Design, simulate, and submit functional analog/digital/mixed-signal circuits.
- Eligibility: Open to individuals - students, hobbyists, and early-career professionals.
- Learning Outcomes: Participants gain hands-on VLSI design experience using a real foundry OpenPDK, develop schematics, run simulations, and build documentation - entirely with open tools.
Timeline
| Date | Activity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Sept. - 15 Sept. 2025 | Registration for the Marathon | Complete the participation form |
| 16 Sept. 2025 | Marathon Inauguration Webinar | FOSSEE Team will introduce through eSim, IHP and Marathon process |
| 16 Sept. - 23 Sept. 2025 | Literature Survey | Participants need to research the topic available in papers/journals on the web |
| 23 Sept. 2025 | Report Submission | Submit one-page research conclusion and circuit implementation plan |
| 23 Sept. - 5 Oct. 2025 | Implementation | Design, characterise and simulate using eSim platform |
| 5 Oct. - 8 Oct. 2025 | Report Submission & Documentation | Upload reference and actual circuit/waveform using eSim |
| 25 Oct. 2025 | Result Declaration (Provisional) | Announcement of provisional results |
Feb 3, 2025
[FOSDEM'25] OpenPDK and FOSS CAD-EDA tools
Abstract: VACASK is a novel FOSS analog circuit simulator with a clear separation between device models (i.e. equations) and circuit analyses. It is based on the state of the art KLU sparse matrix library and utilizes the OpenVAF Verilog-A compiler for building its device models from Verilog-A sources. A comparison with other FOSS analog circuit simulators is presented and the roadmap for future development is discussed. A major obstacle in development of VACASK (and every other new simulator) is the implementation of legacy device models that boils down to writing tens of thousands of lines of C code. Legacy device models are used in several older PDKs as well as in models of a large number of discrete electronic components. A novel approach to implementing these device models is proposed: a converter from SPICE3 API-based C code into modern Verilog-A code. The performance of the converted models is compared to that of native SPICE3 models. At the present the converted models can be used in VACASK and Ngspice circuit simulators as well as in any other simulator that supports Verilog-A. The limitations of the approach are discussed. Some alternative use cases for the converter are proposed and a roadmap for its future development is presented.
Abstract: XSPICE code models have been intrgrated into ngspice since starting the ngspice project. Currently 68 device models are available, ranging from simple elements like analog gain cells or digital inverters up to complex ones like a digital state machine, SRAMs, 3D table models or interfaces to digital Verilog building blocks compiled with Verilator. The simulation with digital blocks is fast, since event based. The interface between digital and analog blocks is automated. The use of the XSPICE code models has been hampered a bit due to their specific interfaces and the lack of graphical symbols of its elements for creating user readable circuit diagrams. So I have started a project to provide XSPICE code model support via the well-known KiCad/ngspice integration. It comprises of symbol library and its assiciated device models assembled in a subcircuit model library. In the talk I will inform about its concept and status and will present some application examples
https://forum.kicad.info/t/simulation-with-xspice-code-models/56384 https://sourceforge.net/projects/ngspice/
Abstract: Gnucap is a Free versatile and modern, modular, analog and mixed-signal simulator. Verilog-AMS is a standardized behavioural language for analog and mixed-signal systems based on the IEEE 1364-2005 industry standard, commonly known as Verilog. Gnucap was invented to advance circuit simulator technology from around 1985, at the time SPICE was developed (1973-1993) at UC Berkeley. Gnucap was released under GPLv3+ in 2001 to avoid patent issues. Today, proprietary simulators supposedly implement the most efficient algorithms yet inspired by public research from the past century. Meanwhile, the Gnucap project is making progress harvesting the breakthroughs, for use in free/libre software. To address the interoperability across circuit design tools, and across modelling domains, Verilog-AMS was created. Verilog-AMS extends traditional Verilog by analog features known from SPICE, and permits models that interact with both the digital and analog domains. The standard expertly allows for vendor-independent representations of modern circuit designs.
1 In this talk, we will explain the new revision of our proposed IEEE 1364-2005 compliant schematic interchange format, and how seamless interaction will empower FOSS EDA tools. We will outline work in progress, possibly demonstrate an application, and hint at opportunities. We will explain how the interchange will extend towards PCB design and layout2 We will summarise new mixed signal features available in modelgen-verilog. This includes monitored analog events, as well as discrete modelling in terms of user defined primitives. We will expand on the usefulness of discrete disciplines and "connect modules", and give an update on the implementation status.3 On the algorithmic end, we have added a plugin interface for VLSI-ready matrix solvers to the zoo. We will highlight a new solver combining temporal sparsity with the time/space efficiency of "conventional sparse" LU decomposition. We will explain why Gnucap will outpace traditional (open source) solvers on virtually all instances, both small and big circuits.
Abstract: In the field of semiconductor technology, compact modeling, and IC designs, the OpenPDK Initiative provides an international platform for discussing advanced technologies, fostering collaboration among industry and academic leaders in electronic design automation (EDA). We review selected R&D topics presented at a recent event by prominent academic researchers and industrial professionals who presented and discussed innovative approaches in CAD/EDA tools, techniques including compact/SPICE modeling, and IC design that address the demands of emerging semiconductor technology applications. However, the semiconductor industry also faces many challenges in maintaining the growth of its workforce with skilled technicians and engineers. To address the increasing need for well-trained workers worldwide, we must find innovative ways to attract skilled talent and strengthen the local semiconductor workforce ecosystem. The FOSS CAD/EDA tools with the recently available open access PDKs provide a new platform to connect IC design beginners, enthusiasts and experienced mentors to benefit from the collaboration opportunities enabled by the fast-growing open-source IC design movement. The collaborative development of open-source integrated circuit (IC) designs is becoming increasingly feasible due to the rapid expansion of OpenPDKs recently offered by SkyWater, GF and IHP with an open schedule of MPW Runs for FMD-QNC project in 2024-25. This paper demonstrates the FOSS CAD/EDA contribution to the SPICE/Verilog-A modeling/standardization, compete IC design flow (Xschem, Qucs-S, ngspice, Xyce, OpenVAF, OpenEMS, Magic, kLayout, OpenRoad), in addition selected, open-source examples of analog/RF and digital IC designs will be presented.
Jul 4, 2024
[paper] anybody can design and build a chip
Abstract: In this article, we introduce the first European open source process design kit (PDK), namely IHP-Open130-G2. We provide a concise history of the PDK itself and offer a brief comparison with some alternative open source PDKs, such as SKY130 and GF180MCU. The article also includes a process description and details on deliverables, offering insights into available devices, models, supported open source tools, and workflows. As the IHP-Open130-G2 is currently under development, we present key points outlining future activities. This aims to inform and attract users to join the open source silicon community. The concluding section of the article compares measurement results for active devices with compact model results. The article concludes with a cryptographic Internet protocol (IP) core based on IHP-Open130-G2 as an exemplary use case.
[REF] “130nm BiCMOS open source PDK, dedicated for analog, mixed signal and RF design.” GitHub. Online: https://github.com/IHP-GmbH/IHP-Open-PDK
Apr 30, 2024
Workshop on Advanced Integrated Circuit Design
Date & Time
DAY-2: May 15, 2024 10:00 a.m. ~ 4:05 p.m.
Hybrid format (lectures can be held at Fukuoka venues and ZOOM Webinars)
Online (Zoom Webinars)
Fukuoka Venue: Fukuoka System LSI Development Center 2F
(〒814-0001 3-8-33 Momochihama, Sawara-ku, Fukuoka City)
There is no parking lot at the venue, so if you come by car, please use the
nearby paid parking lot.
Participation Fee: free
Application
[Application deadline: May 13]
Please apply from the link below (you can also apply for either Day-1 or Day-2 only). Simultaneous interpretation in English and → is available at the Fukuoka venue and ZOOM Webinars. The first 70 people to participate at the Fukuoka venue and the first 400 people to participate in the ZOOM Webinar will be closed to the first 400 people. If you wish to cancel after applying for the Fukuoka venue, please contact us as soon as possible. In addition, we are planning a simple hands-on, so please bring your laptop (you can participate without a laptop).
Application Form
Program Details (subject to update) https://www.kerc.or.jp/seminar/2024/04/5145152.html
10:00 - 10:05 Opening Remark and Overview of the Workshop, Mehdi Saligane/Koji Inoue, University of Michigan/Kyushu University
10:05 - 10:10 Welcome Remarks from the U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka
10:10 - 10:55 LLMs on ASICs, Greg Kielian/Kauna Lei, Google Research
11:00 - 11:45 Teaching Mixed-Signal Design Using Open-Source Tools, Boris Murmann, University of Hawaii
11:45 - 13:00 Lunch Break
13:00 - 14:00 Photonic and Analog circuits with GDSFactory, Joaquin Matres/Troy Tamas, Google X/DoPlayDo, Inc.
14:00 - 14:15 Break
14:15 - 15:45 ReaLLMASIC: Build your own Lightweight LLM, Gregory Kielian/Kauna Lei/Shiwei Liu/Mehdi Saligane, Google Research/University of Michigan
15:45 - 16:00 Conclusion, Mehdi Saligane, University of Michigan
[Morning Session: Invited Talks]
10:05 - 10:50 Superconductor Computer Architecture: from Classical to Quantum, Ilkwon Byun, Kyushu University
10:50 - 11:35 Overview of new devices in the era of Beyond CMOS, Sadayuki Yoshitomi, Megachips
11:35 - 13:00 Lunch Break
[Afternoon Session: Tutorials]
13:00 - 13:55 (Tentative: GLayout), Anhang Li/Boris Murmann/Mehdi Saligane, University of Michigan/University of Hawaii
13:55 - 14:50 (Tentative: XLS: High-Level Synthesis), Johan Euphrosine, Google
14:50 - 15:05 Break
15:05 - 16:00 Pitfalls of Open-Source Chip Design Verification, Mitch Bailey, Efabless/ShuhariSystem
16:00 - 16:05 Conclusion and Overview of the phase-2 workshop activities, Mehdi Saligane/Koji Inoue, University of Michigan/Kyushu University
Organizer
Kyushu University System LSI Research Center Kyushu University
Quantum Computing Systems Research Center Kyushu University
Value Creation Semiconductor Human Resource Development Center
Co-organizers
Fukuoka Prefectural Foundation for the Promotion of Industry, Science and Technology Kyushu Economic Research Association
Sponsor
U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka
Inquiries
ic-design-ws 'at' slrc.kyushu-u.ac.jp (replace 'at' with @)
Okano, Business Development Department, TEL: 092-721-4907
May 11, 2023
OpenPDK Networking Workshop
Networking Workshop FMD-QNC on 27-28 June 2023
Location:
IHP; Im Technologiepark 25; 15236 Frankfurt (Oder)
Contact:
Sergei Andreev; Phone: +49 335 5625 523
|
Presentation |
Presenter/Institution |
Timeline |
|
Day 1 |
||
|
Welcome by coordinator FMD-QNC |
Dr. Andreas Bruning |
9:00-9:10 |
|
Introduction FMD-QNC project status and IHP OpenPDK Roadmap |
Dr. Rene Scholz |
9:10-9:30 |
|
Status OpenPDK and OpenTooling for SG13G2 BiCMOS technology |
Sergei Andreev |
9:30-10:00 |
|
An Ultra-Low-Power High-Density Wireless Biomedical Sensing System
|
Prof. Harald Pretl |
10:00-10:30 |
|
Teaching digital design by using open-source EDA tools |
Prof. Steffen Reith |
10:30-11:00 |
|
Coffee break |
11:00-11:40 |
|
|
CMOS Rail-to-Rail Operational Amplifier for HPGe Radiation Detector |
Prof. Herman Jalli Ng |
11:40-12:10 |
|
Design-flow approaches for mmWave and sub-THz integrated transceiver circuits for radar and communication |
Sasha Breun
|
12:10-12:40 |
|
Lunch break |
12:40-13:40 |
|
|
TBD |
Dr. Frank K. Gurkaynak |
13:40-14:10 |
|
TBD |
Joachim Hebeler |
14:10-14:40 |
|
Coffee break |
14:40-15:10 |
|
|
TBD |
Prof.
Dietmar Kissinger |
15:10-15:40 |
|
LibMan - an easy way to manage your open source design flow |
Dr. Anton Datsuk |
15:40-16:10 |
|
Get together (Barbecue) |
|
17:00-… |
|
Day 2 |
||
|
ngspice - status and future developments |
Prof. Holger Vogt |
9:00-9:20 |
|
DMT - Python Toolkit for Device Modeling |
Mario Krattenmacher |
9:20-9:40 |
|
OpenVAF - Next Generation Verilog-A Compiler with ngspice integration |
Mario Krattenmacher |
9:40-10:00 |
|
Coffee break |
10:00-10:40 |
|
|
Best practices for implementing and optimizing KLayout DRC and LVS decks |
Matthias Köfferlein |
10:40-11:00 |
|
Generating DRC and LVS Runsets for KLayout |
Dr. Andreas Krinke |
11:00-11:20 |
|
OpenEMS in open source EDA |
Jan Taro Svejda |
11:20-11:40 |
|
Lunch break |
11:40-12:40 |
|
|
Panel discussion on the roadmap – open source tools for IC design Topics:
|
Dr. Norbert Herfurth Panelists: TBD |
12:40-14:10 |


