Everyone uses automated toolchains, but getting physical layout from toolchain does not mean it works or performs.
What makes it possible to design small volumes of custom asics for reasonable price is old and well known process, increasing the error margins (and sacrificing performance) or using existing modules. Simulation mostly works and can be trusted, yield is predictable etc.
What makes it possible to design small volumes of custom asics for reasonable price is old and well known process, increasing the error margins (and sacrificing performance) or using existing modules. Simulation mostly works and can be trusted, yield is predictable etc.