Semiconductor verification represents a natural opportunity for the application of AI. Indeed, companies are already applying the technology to take the guess work out of tool configuration and increase execution efficiency. But this is clearly just the start. The holy grail of EDA AI is to replace mundane and time-consuming engineering work, allowing the experts to focus on critical issues.

A good example is the automated production of basic verification tests. Clearly a worthy goal but not without its challenges. This presentation will consider what such a technology would look like, the challenges in getting there and what foundational work do we need to realize this opportunity.

Key Points:

• AI is already being used in verification, but the opportunities are far greater.
• Such a tool could eliminate time-consuming engineering work, allowing the human focus on the tough problems
• The technology is possible but a lot of foundational work needs to take place

Dave Kelf, is the CEO of Breker Verification Systems, the leader in test suite synthesis and SystemVIPs. Previously, Dave served as vice president of worldwide marketing solutions at formal verification provider OneSpin Solutions. Earlier, Kelf was president and CEO of Sigmatix, Inc. He worked in sales and marketing at Cadence Design Systems and was responsible for the Verilog and VHDL verification product lines.

As vice president of marketing at Co-Design Automation and then Synopsys, Kelf oversaw the successful introduction and growth of the SystemVerilog language, before running marketing for Novas Software, noted for the Verdi product line, which became Springsoft and is now part of Synopsys. Dave holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electronic Computer Systems from the University of Salford and a Master of Science degree in Microelectronics from Brunel University, both in the U.K., and an MBA from Boston University.