This paper discusses the technology limits placed on the clock switching energy in sequential elements. It proposes a novel pulsed latch that uses a single clocked transistor and consumes close to ten times less clock power than a conventional latch using six clocked transistors. It describes how the new circuit enables additional power savings when virtual grounds, instead of a regular clock, are locally distributed to a group of latches. Finally, the paper discusses how to further reduce the dynamic clock power consumption of the new latch without degrading its timing by feeding it a low-swing clock.

The purpose of this panel is to inform attendees about the current state of the accreditation of software engineering programs and licensing for software engineers in Canada and the US. We also intend to stimulate discussion of the more controversial aspects of this topic.

XVCL (XML-based Variant Configuration Language) is a meta-programming technique and tool that provides effective reuse mechanisms [2]. XVCL is an open source software (http://fxvcl.sourceforge.net) developed at the National University of Singapore. Being a modem and versatile version of Bassett's frames [1], a technology that has achieved substantial gains in industry, the underlying principles of the XVCL have been thoroughly tested in practice. Unlike original frames, XVCL blends with contemporary programming paradigms and complements other design techniques. XVCL uses "composition with adaptation" rules to generate a specific program from generic, reusable meta-components. Program generation rules are 100% transparent to a programmer, who retains full control over fine-tuning the generated code. Despite its simplicity, XVCL can effectively manage a wide range of program variants from a compact base of metacomponents, structured for effective reuse.

What is the reuse problem? The four main dimensions of software reuse are: technology, process, infrastructure and culture. Reuse technology is a solved problem. The reuse process problem has also been solved. Achieving a reuse infrastructure is an area needing more understanding. Finally, reuse culture is the hardest problem to solve.