But if you don't use the techniques, adopting the methodology will require some initial outlay of time and manpower. At a minimum, design and test engineers must learn how to create high-level simulation models of devices in development. Finally comes the cost of training personnel to use the simulation tools. Test engineers must have proper training in simulation and modeling to make the process work effectively. Don't fail, though, to examine the value and benefits.
Virtual test can help designers meet or even exceed objectives and add to the bottom line.
For one, giving test engineers a head start with virtual test can cut four to six weeks or more off of total development time, allowing the company to ship early, when the price is high. One semiconductor manufacturer estimates that cutting just four weeks off the development cycle can be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Providing the design to test engineers before it's finalized allows them to catch design errors early on, alerting designers before spinning silicon. That precaution saves direct money as well as time. Consider also that tester time is very expensive.