This comprehensive book on application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) describes the latest methods in VLSI-systems design. ASIC design, using commercial tools and predesigned cell libraries, is the fastest, most cost-effective, and least error-prone method of IC design. As a consequence, ASICs and ASIC-design methods have become increasingly popular in industry for a wide range of applications. The book covers both semicustom and programmable ASIC types. After describing the fundamentals of digital logic design and the physical features of each ASIC type, the book turns to ASIC logic design-design entry, logic synthesis, simulation, and test-and then to physical design-partitioning, floorplanning, placement, and routing. You will find here, in practical, well-explained detail, everything you need to know to understand the design of an ASIC, and everything you must do to begin and to complete your own design.