Abstract
There are many different discussions and perspectives on processes for product debug and failure analysis (FA) of integrated circuits [1][2][3][4], with some even minimizing the aspect of process for FA. Most attempts to-date at a process for FA have been either task-oriented or capability-oriented. In this paper, a high-level purpose-driven decision-based methodology is proposed, with goals of: 1) Establishing a high-level discussion of Debug process; 2) Initiating a high-level discussion of FA process; 3) Encouraging a broader “world view” in the context of the product life cycle; 4) Emphasizing clarity of purpose (of Debug or FA actions) - “why do we (the analysts) do what we are doing?” 5) Establishing context for synergy between Debug and FA.
