ZeBu Verification

Synopsys ZeBu is a leading hardware emulation system that enables pre-silicon verification at near real-time speeds. Ideal for validating large-scale SoCs, AI accelerators, networking chips, and embedded software, ZeBu is a go-to solution when simulation can’t keep up with complexity.

With support for both dynamic simulation and hybrid co-verification, ZeBu delivers speed, scale, and visibility for enterprise verification teams.

What is Synopsys ZeBu?

ZeBu is a hardware-assisted verification platform designed to accelerate RTL validation and software bring-up using FPGA-based and custom hardware acceleration.

Its major components include:

  • ZeBu Server 5: FPGA-based, high-throughput emulation
  • ZeBu Empower: Power-aware emulation with real activity data
  • ZeBu Hybrid: Integrated CPU co-simulation for embedded firmware testing
  • ZeBu EP1: Next-gen high-capacity platform for billion-gate designs

Key Capabilities in ZeBu

  • Scalable emulation from IP blocks to full-chip SoCs
  • Speeds up software validation, OS boot, and driver testing
  • Real waveform debugging and visibility with Verdi
  • Accelerated UVM testbench integration
  • Supports power-aware analysis and functional coverage
  • Enables power/performance tradeoff early in the cycle

Who Uses ZeBu and Why?

  • Mobile & AI chipmakers validating workloads before tapeout
  • Embedded systems teams testing firmware pre-silicon
  • Enterprise silicon teams requiring billions of cycles in days, not months
  • Teams using hybrid flows with RTL + software under test simultaneously

ZeBu makes it possible to co-design, co-verify, and co-optimize across software and hardware stacks.

ZeBu Integration and Ecosystem Fit

  • Seamlessly integrates with Verdi, VCS, and VC Formal
  • Works with Synopsys’ Fusion Compiler and Silicon Lifecycle Management tools
  • Supports emulation of ARM, RISC-V, and custom cores
  • Enables continuous integration workflows and power modeling

ZeBu is a cornerstone of the Synopsys Verification Continuum platform

ZeBu Access and Trial Options

Synopsys does not offer a public download or self-serve trial. However, qualified teams may:

>> Request a Demo or Evaluation
Access is coordinated through Synopsys sales and typically includes an NDA and scoping call.

Tip: Have your design size, intended workloads, and existing toolchain ready to discuss.