Mentor Graphics teamed up with National Instruments to create a test-oriented feedback process for designers. NI has been working around the edges of SoC design for some time with its LabVIEW software. The combination of LabVIEW and Mentor’s SystemVision SVX client means that NI is now firmly in the EDA business with a test-as-you-proceed approach.

Synopsys will deliver high-performance audio IP for 40nm and 55nm process nodes. This gets particularly interesting given the company’s announced purchase of Virage Logic, which now owns the ARC processor and all the associated codecs. ARC specializes in the high-end audio market, as well.

Synopsys also joined forces with GlobalFoundries to develop PHY IP for 28nm SoCs. The two companies had a similar agreement for DesignWare Interface PHY IP from 32nm all the way back to 180nm.

Cadence realigned its workforce around its EDA360 vision, focusing the company’s R&D around system, SoC and silicon realization. The system and SoC realization R&D will be led by Nimish Modi, while the silicon realization will fall under Chi-Ping Hsu. John Bruggeman’s marketing organization also will be tightly integrated with the new R&D groups. Given the company’s push into this new software- and IP-driven strategy, this should come as no surprise.

Cadence also adjusted its Q2 results, showing GAAP net income of $49 million, compared with a net loss of $74 million in Q2 2009. Revenue was $227 million for the quarter compared with $210 million in 2009.

Apache Design Solutions reported record bookings and revenue for Q2. The company said growth came from multiple new customers across broad market segments, while achieving 100% renewal from existing customers.

In the IP world, ARM’s revenue shot up 42% to $150.3 million, compared with $105.5 million in Q2 2009. Net cash generated was $30.4 million vs. $11.9 million in 2009. Profit before tax rose 167%.

MIPS likewise reported a stellar quarter. Revenue for the fourth fiscal quarter, ended June 30, was $23.3 million, up 33% over the prior quarter and up 85% from the same period in 2009. Net income was $5.7 million vs. $3.1 million in Q3 and $2.7 million in Q4 2009.

Actel signed up design services provider Axelsys as a partner. Axelsys, based in Fremont and Shanghai, is focused on a broad array of markets ranging from consumer electronics to defense and scientific applications.

And finally, on a sad note, Virage Logic executive VP Brani Buric passed away following a short illness. Buric helped build Virage into the IP powerhouse it has become, betting heavily on IP’s future before it was recognized by the rest of the industry. He will be remembered by the many lucky enough to work with him.

Tags: Apache Design Solutions, ARC, ARM, Cadence, GlobalFoundries, Mentor Graphics, MIPS, National Instruments, Synopsys, Virage Logic

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