Question 1

What is a stick diagram in VLSI design?

Accepted Answer

A stick diagram is a simplified representation of an integrated circuit layout that shows the relative positions of transistors, wiring (metal interconnects), polysilicon gates, and diffusion regions without specifying exact physical dimensions. It uses color-coded lines for each fabrication layer and is a critical step between circuit schematics and full mask layouts in CMOS IC design.

Question 2

How do I draw a stick diagram online?

Accepted Answer

With StickOut, open the Stick Diagram editor, select a layer (Metal, Poly, Diffusion, etc.), choose the Wire tool, and click on the canvas grid to draw. Use the Contact tool for connections and the Label tool for annotations. Export as high-resolution PNG when done.

Question 3

Is StickOut free to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes, StickOut is 100% free. There are no ads, no sign-ups, and no usage limits. Use it as much as you want for homework, research, teaching, or professional IC design work.

Question 4

What is the difference between a stick diagram and a layout diagram?

Accepted Answer

A stick diagram is an abstracted, topological representation showing relative placement and connectivity without precise dimensions. A layout diagram is geometrically accurate with exact widths, spacings, and coordinates ready for fabrication. Stick diagrams are drawn first to plan the layout.

Question 5

Can I save and share my stick diagrams?

Accepted Answer

Yes. StickOut auto-saves to your browser and supports .stk project files for sharing. You can also export PNG images with customizable backgrounds and margins.

Question 6

What VLSI layers does StickOut support?

Accepted Answer

StickOut supports Metal 1, Metal 2, Polysilicon, P-Diffusion, N-Diffusion, Contacts, Vias, N-Well/P-Well boundaries, Demarcation lines, Implants, Buried Contacts, Silicide Blocks, Thick Oxide regions, and dynamically added higher metal layers with customizable colors.