Design Automation for Timing-Driven Layout Synthesis

The automation of layout synthesis design under stringent timing specifications is essential for state-of-the-art VLSI circuits and systems design. Especially, the timing-driven layout synthesis with optimal placement and routing of transistors with proper sizing is most critical in view of the chip area, interconnection parasitics, circuit delay and power dissipation. This book presents a systematic and unified view of the layout synthesis problem with a strong focus on CMOS technology. The criticality of RC parasitics in the interconnects and the optimal sizing of both p-channel and n-channel transistors are illustrated for motivation. Following the motivation, the problems of modelling circuit delays and transistor sizing are formulated and solved with mathematical rigour. Various delay models for CMOS circuits are discussed to account for realistic interconnection parasitics, the effect of transistor sizes, and also the input slew rates. Also many of the efficient transistor sizing algorithms are critically reviewed and the most recent transistor sizing algorithm based on convex programming techniques is introduced.For design automation of the rigorous CMOS layout synthesis, an integrated system that employs a suite of functional modules is introduced for step-by-step illustration of the design optimization process that produces highly compact CMOS layout that meet used-specified timing and logical nettist requirements. Through most rigorous discussion of the essential design automation process steps and important models and algorithms this book presents a unified systems approach that can be practised for high-performance CMOS VLSI designs. The book should serve as a valuable reference and can be used as text in advanced courses covering VLSI design, especially for design automation of physical design.