Intel Component Design Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

A domino logic circuit is a type of digital circuit that uses a chain of inverters to propagate a signal.

• A domino logic circuit consists of a chain of inverters connected in series.

• The output of each inverter is connected to the input of the next inverter.

• The input signal is applied to the first inverter in the chain.

• The output of the last inverter in the chain is the output of the circuit.

• Domino logic circuits are fas...read more

Yes, voltage scaling can help speed up a circuit by increasing the voltage to improve signal propagation.

• Increasing the voltage can reduce the resistance and capacitance effects, leading to faster signal propagation.

• Voltage scaling can also increase the switching speed of transistors, improving overall circuit performance.

• However, higher voltage levels may also increase power consumption and generate more heat, requiri...read more

Static timing analysis involves calculating timing constraints in circuits with flip-flops and latches to ensure correct operation.

• Static timing analysis checks timing paths between flip-flops and latches.

• Time borrowing allows a latch to hold data longer than its clock period.

• Example: If FF1 outputs to a latch, and the latch has a delay, ensure FF1's setup time is met.

• Consider clock skew and latch delay when calculatin...read more

Transistor level designs involve using transistors to create simple logic gates.

• Transistors can be used to create logic gates such as AND, OR, and NOT gates.

• In an AND gate, two transistors are connected in series.

• In an OR gate, two transistors are connected in parallel.

• In a NOT gate, a single transistor is used.

• Logic gates can be combined to create more complex circuits.

Timing analysis changes for violating hold time and set up time constraints.

• For violating hold time constraint, the circuit needs to be redesigned to increase the delay of the data path.

• For violating set up time constraint, the circuit needs to be redesigned to decrease the delay of the data path.

• Hold time violations can be resolved by inserting additional flip-flops or increasing the clock-to-Q delay.

• Set up time viola...read more

I designed a component for a new smartphone model.

• Developed a compact and efficient component for a smartphone

• Collaborated with a team of engineers to ensure compatibility and functionality

• Performed extensive testing and analysis to optimize performance

• Implemented design changes based on feedback and requirements

• Ensured compliance with industry standards and regulations

NAND and NOR structures are logic gates used in digital circuits. Their sizing varies based on the loads they need to drive.

• NAND and NOR gates are fundamental building blocks in digital circuit design.

• The size of NAND and NOR gates is determined by the number of inputs and the loads they need to drive.

• For NAND gates, the size of the transistors in the pull-up network is increased to handle larger loads.

• For NOR gates, t...read more

The design flow for chip development involves several stages, including specification, architecture, design, verification, and manufacturing.

• Specification: Define the requirements and functionality of the chip.

• Architecture: Determine the high-level structure and components of the chip.

• Design: Create the detailed circuitry and layout of the chip.

• Verification: Test and validate the chip design for functionality and perfo...read more

Energy is consumed in transistors primarily in the form of heat.

• Energy is consumed in the form of heat due to resistive losses in the transistor.

• Switching between on and off states also consumes energy.

• Leakage current in transistors leads to energy consumption.

• Energy consumption can vary based on the transistor's size, material, and operating conditions.