Older design methodologies require a designer to manually re-implement a design module if it was created in a format different from the format of the overall design. Actel's enhanced Libero tool suite allows integration of such modules, eliminating the need for re-implementation. This mixed-mode capability has become important as programmable logic design density increases and IP utilization and design reuse become a necessity.

"Manually integrating multiple design blocks using schematic and HDL input can be tricky and time consuming," said Richard Paw, manager of software product marketing at Actel. "By giving our customers the freedom to mix and match their design entry methodologies, our enhanced Libero tool suite minimizes redesign work, easing design reuse and increasing productivity."

About Libero

A comprehensive design environment, Libero integrates industry-leading design tools and streamlines the design flow; manages all design, run and report files; and passes necessary design data between tools. Libero includes best-in-class tools such as Innoveda's ViewDraw(TM) schematic capture tool; SynaptiCAD's WaveFormer Lite test bench generation system; Model Technology's ModelSim® simulation and design verification software; Synplicity's Synplify® synthesis software; and Actel's Designer Series place-and-route software and Silicon Explorer verification and logic analyzer tool.

The Libero tool suite is available in three versions: Platinum, Gold and Silver. Actel's Libero Platinum is a complete tool suite solution with unlimited design capacity and customer support. For users designing system-level devices of 50,000 gates or less, Actel offers its Libero Gold version. Libero Silver offers tool support from entry to programming for Actel devices of 10,000 gates or less, including Actel's eX family and the ProASIC A500K050. Libero Silver does not include simulation, but designers may use their own simulator without restrictions.

Pricing and Availability

Libero Platinum is priced at $2,495 and Libero Gold is priced at $995. Libero Silver is offered at no charge to qualified designers for one year. Current customers on maintenance will be upgraded at no additional cost.

A Libero Platinum evaluation version may be used for 45 days free of charge. It includes all the integrated tools, functionality and power of Platinum without the programming capability.

About Actel

Actel Corporation is a supplier of innovative programmable logic solutions, including field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) based on antifuse and flash technologies and embedded-programmable gate arrays (EPGAs) based on SRAM technology, as well as high-performance intellectual property (IP) cores, software development tools and design services. Founded in 1985 and headquartered in Sunnyvale, California, Actel employs approximately 500 people worldwide. The Company is traded on the Nasdaq National Market under the symbol ACTL and is located at 955 East Arques Avenue, Sunnyvale, California, 94086-4533. Telephone: 888-99-ACTEL (992-2835). Internet: http://www.actel.com .

NOTE: The Actel name and logo and ProASIC are registered trademarks of Actel Corporation. All other trademarks and servicemarks are the property of their respective owners.