Cadence Design Systems launched its latest supercomputer on April 17, 2024, aimed at expediting the creation of computing chips and associated software. The new systems, Palladium Z3 and Protium X3, offer virtual chip emulation capabilities, allowing companies like Nvidia and Apple to commence software development even before the physical chips are manufactured. This emulation technology is instrumental in reducing the time required for chip design processes, which typically span over a year.
The significance of Cadence's software tools in chip design, often overlooked by the general public, was highlighted by CEO Anirudh Devgan. The upgraded systems, capable of emulating chips twice the size of their predecessors, are already being tested by Nvidia for its latest chip designs. With a focus on custom computing chips, Cadence maintains a competitive edge in emulation technology, boasting a decade-long lead over potential competitors. The introduction of these advanced supercomputers marks a significant milestone in accelerating innovation in the semiconductor industry.
