PDN Optimization: Balancing Performance and Cost in SoC Designs

Estimated reading time: Less than a minute

The evolution of adaptive system-on-chip (SoC) devices has brought unprecedented computing capabilities to modern electronic systems. However, with this advancement comes increasingly complex power delivery challenges. In particular, as organizations strive to accelerate time-to-market while managing costs, optimizing power delivery networks (PDNs) has become a critical factor in successful product development.

This article demonstrates advanced PDN optimization techniques through a real-world case study of AMD’s Versal adaptive SoC platform. Using the VCK190 evaluation kit featuring the Versal AI Core series VC1902 device, I’ll explore how effective PDN design and optimization can help meet demanding technical specifications while addressing essential business goals.

Understanding Modern PDN Challenges
Modern SoCs require precise power delivery across a broad frequency spectrum, from DC to the gigahertz range. The PDN must maintain stable voltage levels while managing current transients and minimizing impedance across all frequencies. For configurable devices like the AMD Versal adaptive SoC, this challenge is particularly complex because power requirements vary significantly based on device configuration and application.

To read this entire article, which appeared in the October 2025 issue of Design007 Magazine, click here.