📘 Floorplanning Terminologies
Macro
Pre-designed large block like SRAM or PLL, placed during floorplan.
IP Block
Reusable design unit such as USB, PCIe, or processor core.
Standard Cell
Basic gates (AND, OR, INV, FF) placed during PnR stage.
Tap Cell
Connects substrate to ground to prevent latch-up issues.
End Cap Cell
Placed at ends of standard cell rows for structural closure.
Decap Cell
Provides decoupling capacitance to stabilize local power grid.
Spare Cell
Logic gates inserted for future engineering change orders (ECOs).
Tie High/Low
Used to tie signals safely to logic '1' or '0' level.
Filler Cell
Fills gaps between standard cells to meet DRC and metal continuity.
Keepout Margin
Reserved region around macros or IOs to avoid overlaps or congestion.
Placement Blockage
Prevents cells from being placed in designated areas to reduce routing congestion.
Ports
Logical interface pins used for connecting signals into/out of the design.
Core Utilization
Percentage of core area occupied by placed cells vs total available area.