Inside Cadence: The Software Powering Semiconductor Breakthroughs

Feb 29, 2024

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In this episode of What Matters Most, Sands Capital Sr. Research Analyst Daniel Pilling takes us on a deep dive into the world of Cadence, the leading software provider in the semiconductor industry. From the evolution of semiconductor design to the potential of generative AI, we explore the intricate processes and challenges in chip design. We delve into the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry, the value addition in both leading edge and analog chips, and the strategic role Cadence plays in this dynamic ecosystem. With their software integrated into the manufacturing process of semiconductors, Cadence has the potential to shape the future of the industry.

Episode Transcript ⁠Available Here⁠.

Show Notes:

(00:53) Cadence’s two offerings
(03:00) Overview of the semiconductor manufacturing process (if you didn’t listen to the Entegris episode) and the three-legged stool analogy
(05:34) Electronic design automation (EDA) tools and evolution of semiconductor design process
(09:52) Physical limitations, shrinking transistors, and the laws of physics
(13:04) Error reduction, adapting to increasing complexity, and generative AI
(17:17) Daniel’s five- to 10-year view on whether AI is a future alternative to EDA
(19:00) Who actually uses Cadence software?
(21:49) A counter to the cyclical nature of the semiconductor industry
(23:31) The value added in analog chips, and legacy Cadence software
(25:58) Frequency of chip re-architecting
(28:22) Management team and a second act
(30:55) Risks and how Cadence can benefit from the Jevons Paradox
(34:25) Daniel’s not worried about “the wall of worry.”
(36:05) The end of Moore’s Law and the paradigm shift to quantum chips
(40:36) How did Daniel become an investor?
(44:44) Daniel’s closing hypothesis and conviction in investments