Study Plan: Computer
Science and Systems Engineering - Specialisation in Information
Technologies
Code: 5308O8
Course Unit: Option
T II
Programme:
Digital
Systems Synthesis I-
CAD algorithms for Partition, Floorplanning/Placement, Routing and
Layout cell problems. Synthesis and scheduling algorithms. Use
of CAD/EDA tools encompassing areas
beyond VLSI physical design.
Presentation of case study solution
space optimization techniques namely Simulated
Annealing and Genetic
Algorithms.
Prerequisites:
Digital
Systems Synthesis I-
None. (Basic knowledge in algorithms, data structures and
programming languages is assumed.)
Learning Outcomes:
(i)
Learn a few digital design automation algorithms, namely
within physical design. Understand Partition, Floorplanning,
Routing and Scheduling problem formulation. Analyze techniques for
problem re-formulation, so that algorithms exhibit polynomial
order run times, and, or, solution improvement. Learn heuristics
demanding lower computational effort, yet yielding good quality
solution;
(ii)
Learn how to characterize the computational complexity of
synthesis problems, and problem solutions. Identify key features
of DFT (Design for Testability) and SOC (System on a
Chip) design methodologies. Understand key aspects of current
digital systems design methodologies. Namely the close
interdependence of Partition, Floorplanning, Global Routing and
Detailed Routing problem solutions;
(iii)
Acquire design automation problem formulation capabilities
for digital design problems. Learn how to specify cost functions
for quality solution evaluation;
(iv)
Do a small project, implementing an existing design
automation algorithm, possibly including changes – as
appropriate – either in cost function, search motor parameters,
solution generation, or heuristics.
Bibliography:
Digital
Systems Synthesis I-
"VLSI Physical Design Automation, Theory and Practice",
Sait & Youssef, World Scientific Pub Co, 1st edition, 1999;
– “Synthesis and Optimization of Digital Circuits”, De
Micheli, McGraw-Hill, 1994; - DAC, ICCAD and ISPD Proceedings.
