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Krishna Challa

Physical Design Expert | STA | PNR | EMIR | Signoff Engineering

Forging Silicon: A Physical Design Expert’s Journey

My career is founded on the critical discipline of Physical Design, the essential bridge that transforms complex logical circuit blueprints into tangible, manufacturable silicon chips. With a B.Tech providing the technical bedrock, I entered the semiconductor industry focused on mastering the entire ASIC design flow, from the initial RTL/Netlist to the final GDSII—a process where precision and performance are paramount1.

The Architecture of Advanced Silicon

My journey is marked by a deep immersion in cutting-edge fabrication technology, demonstrating successful project execution across an extensive range of process nodes, from the established 180nm to the industry-leading 7nm2. This vast exposure has culminated in the leadership and signoff of 26 complex Place and Route (PNR) projects3.

My expertise is not just theoretical; it’s proven in silicon across diverse and demanding applications:

  • High-Performance Computing: Successfully delivering advanced designs for Network Chips, Server Chips, and Multi-core Processors4.
  • Specialized Architectures: Implementing critical designs for GPU-based, FPGA, and Automotive chips, each presenting unique challenges in high-frequency routing, Analog net integration, and power integrity5.
  • Complexity Management: Navigating the intricate demands of massive designs like Gaming Processors and low-power solutions for Laptop Processors6.

My technical command covers every aspect necessary for optimal chip realization: Chip Level Planning, Floor-planning, Clock Tree Synthesis (CTS), Timing closure, and tackling Signal Integrity (SI) challenges7.

Precision, Verification, and Signoff Mastery

In Physical Design, success is defined by a flawless transition to manufacturing. My methodology is built on achieving a perfect balance of Power, Performance, and Area (PPA), complemented by rigorous verification:

  • Advanced Timing Closure: Expert in all phases of Static Timing Analysis (STA), implementing complex techniques to meet demanding frequency targets, including managing clocks up to 2GHz8.
  • Physical Signoff: Achieving final silicon readiness through comprehensive physical verification (LVS/DRC) using tools like Calibre, ensuring the design adheres to all foundry rules and matches the original schematic9.
  • Flow Automation: Streamlining the entire implementation lifecycle for maximum efficiency through strong proficiency in TCL and Perl scripting10.

Leadership and Delivery Excellence

As a Physical Design Manager, my greatest impact has been in translating technical vision into predictable, high-quality project delivery. I have successfully managed and mentored technical teams of up to 21 engineers, guiding them through the complex stages of PNR, STA, EMIR, and PV closures11. My role is to not only solve the most challenging technical roadblocks but also to manage the critical interface with clients, ensuring seamless delivery and post-deployment support12.

I don’t just implement designs; I lead teams to architect the future of electronics, consistently transforming design specifications into fully functional, power-optimized, and manufacturable silicon.