Entry-Level VLSI Placnement Course
Ready to kickstart your career in VLSI Design?
Our VLSI Design Job-Prep Bootcamp is an all-inclusive, beginner-friendly, hands-on training program meticulously crafted for those aspiring to break into the world of semiconductors. From mastering digital fundamentals to writing real Verilog RTL code, this course ensures you’re industry ready.
Overview
Structured for Beginners – Powered by Industry-Relevant Content
Our "Zero to Silicon Hero" course follows a carefully sequenced curriculum that takes students from the very basics of digital logic and Verilog to real-world RTL projects, interview preparation, and soft skill development.
A must-know domain for every aspiring chip designer. This section focuses on hardware theory, logic building, and circuit analysis.
- 1.1 Number System and Binary Arithmetic
- Binary, Decimal, Octal, Hexadecimal
- Number system conversions
- Signed and unsigned numbers
- 1's and 2's complement systems
- Binary Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division
- Overflow & underflow detection
- Arithmetic Circuit Basics
- Student Assignment
- 1.2 Boolean Algebra and Minimization Techniques
- Logic Operations
- Laws OF Boolean Algebra
- Boolean Algebric Theorems
- Minimization OF Boolean Functions
- Representation OF Boolean Functions
- SOP and POS forms
- DeMorgan's Theorem
- Karnaugh Map (K-Map) up to 5 variables
- Implicants, Prime Implicants And Essential Prime Implications
- Student Assignment
- 1.3 Logic Gates
- Logic Gates (AND, OR, NOT, XOR, XNOR, NAND, NOR)
- Special Purpose Gate
- Realization OF Logic Gate Using Universal Gates
- Student Assignment
- 1.4 Combinational Circuits
- Definition and characteristics of combinational circuits
- Design methodology of combinational circuits (specification → truth table → K-map → logic circuit)
- Basic Combinational Building Blocks (Half Adder, Full Adder, Full Adder Design using two half adders, Half Subtractor and Full Subtractor)
- Design and Implementation of Arithmetic Circuits
- Different Kinds of Adder
- 4-bit Ripple Carry Adder (RCA)
- 4-bit parallel adder and subtractor
- 4-bit Carry Look-Ahead Adder (conceptual overview)
- 4-bit Carry Skip Adder (CSA)
- 4-bit Carry Select Adder (CSeA)
- 4-bit Carry Save Adder (CSA)
- 4-bit Lookahead Carry Unit (LCU)
- 4-bit Prefix Adders (Parallel Prefix Adders)
- 4-bit Block Carry Lookahead Adder (BCLA)
- 4-bit Dual-Rail Adder / Redundant Number Adder
- Decimal (BCD) Adders
- BCD Adder basics
- Binary Magnitude Comparator (1-bit, 2-bit, 4-bit)
- Code Converters: Binary to Gray and Gray to Binary, Binary to BCD, BCD to 7-Segment Decoder
- Multiplexers and Demultiplexers
- Encoders and Decoders
- Programmable Logic Devices (PLDs) (Optional / Advanced Topic)
- Parity Bit Generators/Checkers
- 1.5 Sequential Circuits
- Introduction to Sequential Circuits: Combinational vs. Sequential Circuits, Concepts of Memory and Feedback, Clocked vs. Unclocked Systems, Synchronous and Asynchronous Circuits, Timing Diagrams and Sequence Generation
- Latches and Flip-Flops: SR Latch (NOR and NAND implementations), Gated/Clocked SR Latch, D Latch, Edge Triggered Flip-Flops (SR, D, JK, T), Characteristic Tables and Excitation Tables, Master-Slave Flip-Flops
- Analysis and Design of Sequential Circuits: State Diagram, State Table, State Reduction and Assignment, Design Procedure for Sequential Circuits, Synthesis using D, T, JK Flip-Flops, Practical Sequential Circuit Examples
- Counters: Asynchronous (Ripple) Counters (Binary, Up/Down, Up-Down, Mod-N), Synchronous Counters (Design of Mod-N, Johnson and Ring Counters), Counter Applications (Timers, Dividers)
- Shift Registers: SISO, SIPO, PISO, PIPO, Bidirectional Shift Registers, Applications: Serial Data Transfer, Pseudorandom Sequence Generation
- Finite State Machines (FSM): Introduction to FSMs (Moore, Mealy), State Diagrams for FSMs, Design of Simple FSMs, FSM Applications: Traffic Light Controller, Sequence Detector, etc.
- Timing Concepts in Sequential Circuits: Setup Time and Hold Time, Clock-to-Q Delay, Propagation Delay, Pulse Width Requirements, Timing Diagrams in Depth, Metastability and Synchronizers
- Deep Dive into Delay Modeling: Sources of Delay (Gate Delay, Interconnect Delay, Load Capacitance), Delay Models (Lumped Capacitance Model, Distributed RC Model), Logical Effort and Delay Estimation, Wire Delay and Scaling Effects, Clock Skew and Jitter
- Static Timing Analysis (STA): Introduction to STA, Critical Path, Slack, and Margins, Setup and Hold Time Violations, Constraints in STA: Clock Constraints, Input/Output Delays, Multi-Corner Multi-Mode (MCMM) Analysis, Pessimism and Optimism in Timing Analysis, Timing Reports Interpretation, Timing Closure Strategies
- Practical Aspects of Timing in Design: Timing Budgeting, Pipelining to Improve Timing, Clock Domain Crossing (CDC) Issues, Timing in Synchronous and Asynchronous Designs, Introduction to Tools for STA (like PrimeTime Basics or any other EDA Tool)
- Project and Case Studies: Design and Timing Analysis of a Sequential System (e.g., a small processor controller or traffic light FSM), Real-life Case Studies: Timing Bugs and Solutions, Mini Project: Perform STA for a simple RTL design using industry standard tools
Course Description: This course provides a comprehensive understanding of Verilog, a hardware description language used in digital circuit design and simulation. Starting from the basics, participants will delve into the evolution of Verilog, its constructs, data types, modeling styles, and advanced topics such as timing control, deep delay analysis, and static timing analysis (STA).
Prerequisites- Basic digital logic and VLSI design fundamentals
- Familiarity with C/C++ or another programming language (helpful but not mandatory)
- Module 1: Introduction to VLSI & Verilog (Week 1)
- Overview of VLSI design and ASIC flow
- History and evolution of Verilog (IEEE 1364)
- Verilog tools and simulators
- Module 2: Verilog Language Basics (Week 2)
- Keywords, identifiers, whitespace, and comments
- Numeric literals, logic values, strengths
- Data types: nets vs. regs, scalars vs. vectors, parameters
- Module 3: Gate Level Modeling (Week 3)
- Gate primitives (and, or, nand, nor, xor, xnor)
- Net types (wire, tri, wor, etc.)
- Delay specification: inertial vs. transport, min/typ/max
- Combinational examples & flip flop instantiation
- Module 4: Dataflow Modeling (Week 4)
- Continuous assignments (assign)
- Delays in dataflow style
- Vector assignments and operator precedence
- Module 5: Behavioral Modeling (Weeks 5–7)
- Procedural blocks: initial, always
- Blocking vs. nonblocking assignments
- Control constructs: if/else, case, loops (for, while, repeat, forever)
- Event control (@, event, wait)
- Race conditions and debugging
- Module 6: Functions, Tasks & UDPs (Week 8)
- Defining and invoking functions
- Tasks vs. functions: arguments and timing
- User defined primitives (UDP)
- Module 7: Switch Level Modeling (Week 8)
- CMOS switch primitives
- Transmission gates and bidirectional switches
- Delay modeling in switch level
- Strength contention and trireg
- Module 8: FSMs & Memory Design (Week 9-10)
- Moore & Mealy machines, state encoding
- Sequence detectors and counters
- Memory primitives: ROM, synchronous/asynchronous RAM
- Module 9: Timing Analysis & Synthesis (Weeks 10–12)
- Synthesis overview and constraints (SDC)
- Delay modeling deep dive: inertial vs. transport delays
- Path analysis (setup, hold, recovery, removal)
- Static timing analysis (STA) flow and report interpretation
- SDF back annotation for gate level simulation
- Module 10: Hands On Projects (Week 12-20)
- 1.1 VLSI Fundamentals
- History and Evolution of VLSI
- Moore's Law and Technology Scaling
- VLSI Design Flow Overview
- Design Hierarchy and Abstraction Levels
- Front-end vs Back-end Design
- 1.2 CMOS Technology
- MOS Transistor Physics
- NMOS and PMOS Operation
- CMOS Process Technology
- Technology Nodes and Scaling
- Layout Design Rules
- Fabrication Steps
- 1.3 CMOS Logic Design
- Static CMOS Logic
- Dynamic CMOS Logic
- Pass Transistor Logic
- Transmission Gates
- Power Consumption in CMOS
- 2.1 Basic Circuit Elements
- Resistors, Capacitors, and Inductors
- Voltage and Current Sources
- Circuit Analysis Techniques
- RC and RL Circuits
- 2.2 Digital Circuit Design
- Logic Gate Implementation
- Flip-Flop Design
- Register and Counter Design
- Memory Cell Design
- Clock Distribution Networks
- 2.3 Analog Circuit Design
- Operational Amplifiers
- Comparators
- Voltage References
- Oscillators
- PLL and DLL Basics
- 3.1 Professional CV Development
- CV Structure and Format
- Highlighting Technical Skills
- Project Documentation
- Academic and Professional Achievements
- Industry-Specific Keywords
- 3.2 Interview Skills
- Technical Interview Preparation
- Common VLSI Interview Questions
- Problem-Solving Techniques
- Mock Interview Sessions
- Behavioral Interview Training
- 3.3 Portfolio Building
- Project Documentation
- GitHub Repository Setup
- Technical Blog Writing
- Online Presence Development
- Industry Networking Tips
Zero to Silicon Hero
The "Zero to Silicon Hero" program is a foundational, job-oriented VLSI course specifically designed to transform beginners into confident, industry-ready professionals in the field of semiconductor design. Whether you're a recent graduate, final-year student, or someone transitioning from a different domain, this bootcamp is your gateway to launching a successful career in VLSI RTL Design.
Why This Course Matters
The demand for skilled VLSI engineers is skyrocketing globally with the rapid growth of semiconductor companies in South Asia, especially in India, Bangladesh, and Malaysia. Yet, many fresh graduates struggle to crack VLSI placement exams due to a gap between academic knowledge and industry requirements. This course bridges that gap with a structured, hands-on learning experience focused on real-world skills, interview prep, and project-based learning.
What You Will Learn
This course delivers an end-to-end understanding of digital logic and Verilog RTL design, covering everything from the basics of binary math to building FSMs and memory designs in Verilog. Each concept is taught with a focus on practical applications, ensuring that learners are not only theoretically sound but also ready to build and simulate real hardware modules.
You will learn:
- → Digital electronics principles required for VLSI interviews
- → How to write Verilog HDL code from scratch
- → How to model combinational and sequential logic
- → The structure and flow of a real RTL design project
- → How to build FSMs, RAM/ROM, and protocols like AXI, I2C, and SPI
- → How to debug with waveform viewers and simulation tools
- → How to approach and solve industry-level circuit design problems
- → How to prepare a standout VLSI resume and excel in interviews
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- • Design, write, and simulate RTL modules using Verilog HDL
- • Understand the complete RTL flow from specification to simulation
- • Create and verify FSM-based digital systems
- • Handle technical interviews with confidence using real-time problem-solving strategies
- • Build and present project portfolios aligned with VLSI job expectations
- • Navigate job screening rounds with strong digital logic foundations
Real-World Relevance
This is not just another academic course. Every module is designed to reflect what happens in real VLSI companies. You'll gain insights into:
- • Design methodologies followed in RTL projects
- • Hands-on experience in Verilog testbenches, delays, and modeling
- • Protocols and interfaces like AMBA AXI, SPI, and I2C used in real SoC designs
- • Timing diagrams, synthesis-ready coding, and industry simulation tools
Tools & Techniques
You will receive access to industry-grade tools and platforms including:
- • Verilog simulators and waveform viewers
- • Online lab access via VNC
- • Assignments designed to mirror actual design tasks
- • Real debugging sessions using simulation waveforms
Who Should Enroll?
This course is ideal for:
- • Final year or recently graduated ECE/EEE/CSE students
- • Beginners with a basic understanding of digital logic
- • Anyone looking to start a career in VLSI with no prior Verilog experience
- • Freshers preparing for VLSI job placements or internships
- • Enthusiasts curious about semiconductor design
Guaranteed Outcomes
With consistent effort and participation, you will leave this course with:
- ✅ A strong digital and Verilog foundation
- ✅ A VLSI-ready resume
- ✅ A portfolio of simulation-backed RTL projects
- ✅ Interview preparation and mock experience
- ✅ Confidence to face job screenings in the semiconductor industry
Industry-Standard RTL Projects
Our hands-on projects are designed to give you real-world experience with industry-standard protocols and design practices. Each project focuses on practical implementation while teaching essential concepts in digital design.
AXI4 Interface Protocol Design
Overview
Design a full-featured AXI4-Lite (or full AXI4) master and slave interface in Verilog.
Specs & Features
- 32-bit address/data buses, optional burst support
- Read/write channels with valid/ready handshaking
- Lite vs. full-protocol modes (burst, cache, protection bits)
- Error-response generation (SLVERR, DECERR)
- Synthesis-friendly (no $display, all synthesizable constructs)
Learning Outcomes
- Mastering AMBA-AXI channel sequencing
- Implementing back-pressure via ready/valid
- Integrating protocol monitors/checkers in testbench
Deliverables
Verilog RTL for master & slave
I2S Audio Interface Design
Overview
Implement a stereo I²S controller to transmit and receive left/right PCM samples to an external codec.
Specs & Features
- Configurable word-length (16/24/32 bits)
- Master/slave clock modes (WS, SCK generation/consumption)
- FIFO buffering for audio channels
- Support for stereo full-duplex operation
Learning Outcomes
- Clock-domain crossing (CDC) with FIFOs
- Precise bit-level serialization/deserialization
- Handling resets and "mute" control
Deliverables
- Top-level Verilog module + internal FIFOs
- Testbench streaming prerecorded WAV data
- Report on jitter tolerance and glitch-free switching
I2C Master–Slave Controller
Overview
Create a multi-master, multi-slave I²C bus controller with arbitration, start/stop detection, and ACK/NACK handling.
Specs & Features
- 7- or 10-bit addressing
- Clock stretching support
- Bus arbitration and collision detection
- Read/write transfer with FIFO or register interface
Learning Outcomes
- Finite State Machine (FSM) for protocol sequencing
- Open-drain I/O modeling with pull-ups
- Bus timing compliance (setup, hold, SCL low/high time)
Deliverables
- Master & Slave RTL blocks
- Bus-level directed and random testbench
- Timing report comparing to I²C spec
SPI Controller with Mode Selection
Overview
Design a configurable SPI (0–3) controller supporting single, dual, and quad-SPI modes.
Specs & Features
- CPOL/CPHA mode selection
- Data rates up to a user-defined clock divider
- Multi-line I/O (1-bit to 4-bit data paths)
- DMA-friendly register interface for high-speed transfers
Learning Outcomes
- Multi-mode clock phase/polarity handling
- Loop-back and external-loop testing in simulation
- Synthesizable shift registers and clock dividers
Deliverables
- Verilog for SPI core + control/status registers
- Verification environment (SystemVerilog/UVM or directed)
- Synthesis report showing max fmax and resource utilization
1×3 Packet Router Design
Overview
Build a 1-input, 3-output packet router that steers variable-length flits to one of three downstream ports.
Specs & Features
- Input FIFO + three output FIFOs (depth configurable)
- Routing algorithm: round-robin or priority-based
- Back-pressure signaling (full flags)
- CRC check on incoming packets
Learning Outcomes
- Crossbar switching concepts in RTL
- Flow-control (credit vs. ready/valid)
- Pipelining for high throughput
Deliverables
- Router RTL with parameterized widths/depths
- Testbench sending randomized packet streams
- Throughput/utilization report
Asynchronous FIFO with Gray-Code Pointers
Overview
Implement a dual-clock FIFO allowing safe data transfer across two clock domains using Gray coding.
Specs & Features
- Parameterized data width and depth
- Full/empty flag generation with metastability-safe synchronizers
- Almost-full/almost-empty interrupt thresholds
Learning Outcomes
- CDC techniques and metastability mitigation
- Pointer management with Gray-code conversion
- FIFO testbench including CDC fault injection
Deliverables
- Verilog FIFO core + synchronizer blocks
- Testbench demonstrating error-free cross-domain data transfers
- Static timing analysis showing CDC timing margins
Custom FSM for Protocol Detection
Overview
Design an FSM that monitors a serial bitstream and detects a predefined bit-pattern or protocol header.
Specs & Features
- Moore vs. Mealy style implementations
- Programmable pattern length up to 64 bits
- Overlap handling (e.g., detecting '101010' occurrences)
- Glitch-free pattern-found pulse
Learning Outcomes
- FSM design best practices (one-hot encoding, state minimization)
- Timing-safe pattern matching
- Embedding parameterized Verilog macros
Deliverables
- Verilog FSM module with parameterizable depth
- Formal assertion checks (SystemVerilog Assertions)
- Coverage report on state/transition space
RAM Controller with Read/Write Arbitration
Overview
Build a controller for a single-bank SRAM or simple DRAM, arbitrating between read and write requests from two masters.
Specs & Features
- Two-port access with priority or round-robin
- Single-cycle writes, multi-cycle reads (modeling DRAM refresh if desired)
- Refresh cycle generation (for DRAM-based extension)
- Wait-states insertion based on ready/busy
Learning Outcomes
- Arbitration logic and quality-of-service considerations
- Timing-accurate memory handshaking
- Parameterized address/data widths
Deliverables
- RTL for arbiter + memory interface
- Testbench with conflicting master requests
- Timing closures for worst-case memory timings
Design Verification Course Schedule & Overview
Duration
6 Months of Intensive Training
Batches
January & July Intakes
Mode
100% Online Learning
🕒 Class Schedule
Weekdays
Monday – Friday
Evening sessions after 7:00 PM
Weekends
Saturday & Sunday
Extended 3/4-Hour Interactive Lab Classes
Our Approach
At our academy, we believe that passion and consistency are more important than prior experience. Our expert trainers inspire and support every learner, especially those coming from non-traditional backgrounds, to break into the semiconductor industry with confidence.
The course is designed to be practically intensive — complete with labs, projects, mock interviews, and exams — so that by the end of 6 months, you not only understand theory but also feel job-ready and confident facing real-time industry challenges.
Believe, Begin, Become
The path to becoming a successful Design Verification Engineer doesn't depend on where you come from — it depends on where you want to go. Whether you're a fresh graduate, a CSE student with a passion for digital electronics, or someone just discovering the world of VLSI — this is your moment.
With the right guidance, hands-on practice, and a community that believes in your potential, you can build a career in one of the most exciting and in-demand fields of the semiconductor industry.
All you need is commitment, curiosity, and the courage to start.
Join us, and let's turn your passion into purpose — your learning into a lifelong career.
Your VLSI journey starts here. Are you ready to begin?
Live Class Demo
Watch a live class demo to get a feel for our teaching style and the interactive learning environment.
What to Expect
During the live class, you'll see:
- Interactive lectures with real-time coding examples
- Hands-on practice sessions with immediate feedback
- Q&A sessions to clarify doubts and get personalized guidance
- Engaging discussions with peers and instructors
Meet Your RTL Design Mentor
Industry-Vetted | 5+ Years Experience | 1000+ Learners Trained Globally
Our RTL Design Trainer is not just an instructor, he's a seasoned VLSI front-end expert with over 5 years of hands-on semiconductor industry experience, specializing in ASIC and SoC design from 180nm to 5nm nodes. Armed with a B.Tech/M.Tech in Electronics or Computer Engineering from a reputed institute, he has played a pivotal role in multiple successful tape-outs for leading global semiconductor firms and startups.
What Sets Him Apart
- • Deep RTL Expertise: Master of Verilog & SystemVerilog, with a focus on high-performance IP blocks like AXI4, AHB, APB, FSMs, FIFOs, RAM controllers, and high-speed data paths.
- • Front-End Flow Mastery: From RTL design and linting to CDC checks, low-power design (UPF), synthesis (Design Compiler), STA (PrimeTime), and equivalence checking (Formality)—he covers the entire front-end design lifecycle.
- • Tool Proficiency: Practical, tool-driven training using industry-standard flows, with deep knowledge in SDC constraint development and debugging.
- • Project-Driven Teaching: Learn how real chip design happens through hands-on labs, mini-projects, and synthesis-ready RTL design—not just theory.
Proven Teaching Excellence
With a strong focus on conceptual clarity, RTL architecture thinking, and real-time debugging, he has mentored over 1000+ students and professionals worldwide. His unique approach combines structured learning, live coding, and real-world design challenges to prepare you for the industry from Day One.
"Many of his mentees are now thriving in top semiconductor companies across India, the USA, and Europe."
— Former Student Testimonial
Ready to Learn from the Best?
Join a course where passion meets precision and let an industry mentor shape your journey to becoming a chip design professional.
Zero to Silicon Hero Course – FAQ
Find answers to commonly asked questions about our comprehensive VLSI design course.
The "Zero to Silicon Hero" course is a beginner-friendly, industry-relevant program that takes students from basic digital logic and Verilog HDL to hands-on RTL design projects, interview preparation, and soft skill development. This course will help you to crack any vlsi entry level job exam.
This course is ideal for beginners, electronics and computer engineering students, and anyone interested in VLSI design. No prior knowledge of Verilog or professional digital design experience is required.
We start from scratch — covering number systems, Boolean algebra, logic gates, combinational circuits, sequential circuits, and timing analysis.
Both! You will first build a strong theoretical foundation and then apply it to real-world projects using Verilog HDL and RTL design practices.
Familiarity with programming (like C/C++) can help but is not mandatory. We teach Verilog HDL from the basics.
You'll learn the basics of simulation tools, Verilog compilers, and get an introduction to industry-grade static timing analysis (STA) tools like Synopsys PrimeTime.
Yes! After the basics, we dive deep into Verilog HDL: gate-level modeling, dataflow modeling, behavioral modeling, FSMs, memory design, timing analysis, and project development.
The course duration is approximately 4 months, depending on project complexity and student pace.
You will work on industry-inspired Verilog projects like:
- AXI4 Protocol Design (Master and Slave)
- I2S Audio Interface Design
These projects involve concepts like clock-domain crossing, FIFO buffering, and synthesizable coding practices.
- Solid digital design fundamentals
- Verilog HDL proficiency
- Static timing analysis knowledge
- RTL project development skills
- Understanding of industry-standard bus protocols (AXI, I2S)
- Interview and soft-skill readiness for semiconductor jobs
Absolutely! Assignments, mini-projects, quizzes, case studies, and full project builds are integral parts of the course.
Only a basic understanding of digital logic is recommended. Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are the real prerequisites!
Yes! Our course includes interview preparation modules, resume-building tips, and mock interview sessions focused on semiconductor industry roles.
Yes, a course completion certificate will be provided after successfully finishing all assignments, projects, and final evaluation.
Students receive:
- 24x7 doubt support
- Weekly doubt-clearing sessions
- Project guidance
- Feedback on assignments and projects
Yes! Communication skills, technical explanation skills, and interview etiquette are covered to help you perform better in real-world job interviews.
All sessions are recorded, and you'll have access to them for flexible learning.
Definitely! This course is designed to build a strong foundation for fresh graduates who want to start a career in VLSI RTL design, verification, or FPGA development.
You can contact us directly through our official page or email — we'll guide you through the enrollment process!
Course Highlights
• Design and simulate RTL in Verilog
• Master RTL flow from spec to simulation
• Develop and verify FSM systems
• Ace technical interviews with real-world problems