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Hitting the limit of operating frequency?

potat0e
How do you know you had hit the operating frequency limit for your process node/tech lib? Normally, the FE designer would always like to have some margin to buffer themselves from the uncertainties of process gradient, yield, etc. Was there a thumb of rule for this margin, (5%, 10%)?
  • Kari

     I think this could be very design-dependent. A simple design that is easy to close timing could run at a higher frequency than a more complicated design at the same process node/tech lib. Margin is included not only for the reasons you listed, but also for things like clock jitter, which depends on the specific design. I don't think a single rule-of-thumb would work for all cases. You just have to make a list of the things you want to include margin for and make sure you're comfortable with it. Too much margin, and you won't be able to close the design.

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