Sequence Design

Sequence Design, Inc. operated in the electronic design automation (EDA) sector, providing specialized software tools focused on power and signal-integrity for complex semiconductor design. The company carved out a niche by developing solutions that addressed the critical challenges of power consumption and optimization in system-on-a-chip (SoC) integrated circuits, which are essential components in demanding markets like wireless communications, graphics processing, mobile computing, and networking.

The firm's business model revolved around licensing its proprietary software to engineering teams engaged in the intricate process of chip design. Its product suite included well-regarded tools such as PowerTheater and Watt Watcher. These offerings enabled designers to conduct pre-synthesis, full-chip power analysis at the register-transfer level (RTL), a method that allows for the identification and correction of power dissipation issues early in the design cycle without needing to synthesize the design to the gate level. This capability represented a significant efficiency gain, allowing for better architectural decisions and design closure. The company held a foundational patent for this RTL power estimation methodology.

Initially known as Sente and later as Frequency Technology, the company was an active participant in the evolving EDA landscape. The company's journey culminated in its acquisition by Apache Design Solutions, where its CEO, Vic Kulkarni, transitioned to lead the RTL Business Unit. This strategic move integrated Sequence's RTL power analysis technology with Apache's broader power sign-off platforms. The consolidation within the EDA industry continued, with Apache later being acquired by Ansys, which was subsequently acquired by Synopsys in a major industry transaction. Today, the sequencedesign.com domain redirects to Synopsys's power analysis solutions page, signifying the integration of its technology into a leading EDA portfolio.

Keywords: electronic design automation, EDA, RTL power analysis, system-on-a-chip, SoC design, power optimization software, signal integrity, semiconductor design tools, IC design, Watt Watcher, PowerTheater, Apache Design Solutions, Vic Kulkarni, chip design, pre-synthesis analysis, integrated circuit design, power estimation, timing closure, low-power design, semiconductor intellectual property