oasis format

OASIS (Open Artwork System Interchange Standard) is the next-generation IC layout file format designed to replace GDSII — offering superior compression, no file size limits, and support for more complex geometric elements, specifically designed for the vast data volumes of advanced semiconductor designs.

OASIS Advantages Over GDSII

• Compression: 10-100× smaller file sizes than GDSII — through repetition compression and CBLOCK data compression.
• No Size Limit: No 2GB file size limit — handles the multi-TB data volumes of advanced node designs.
• Parameterized Cells: Support for parameterized repetitions — far more compact representation of regular arrays.
• Modal Data: Properties apply to subsequent elements until changed — reducing redundant data.

Why It Matters

• Data Volume: Advanced node designs (5nm, 3nm) generate 10-100 TB of fracture data — GDSII cannot handle this.
• Transfer Time: Smaller files = faster data transfer between design house, foundry, and mask shop.
• Adoption: Increasingly adopted at advanced nodes — GDSII remains dominant for mature nodes.

OASIS is GDSII without the limits — the modern IC layout format designed for the data deluge of advanced semiconductor manufacturing.