What is PDK?

PDK stands for Process Design Kit. It is a collection of files provided by semiconductor manufacturers that contains models, rules, and data representing a specific manufacturing process. PDKs enable designers to create integrated circuits that can be successfully fabricated using that process. They include information about device characteristics, design rules, simulation models (SPICE models), physical layout information (e.g., mask layers), and verification tools. Designers use PDKs within electronic design automation (EDA) software to design, simulate, and verify their circuits before sending them to the foundry for manufacturing. Without a PDK, accurate circuit design and successful fabrication are impossible.