A timing-driven module-based chip design flow

A Module-Based design flow for digital ICs with hard and soft modules is presented. Versions of the soft modules are implemented with different area/delay characteristics. The versions represent flexibility that can he used in the physical design to meet timing requirements. The flow aims at minimizing the clobk cycle of the chip while providing quicker turn-around time. Unreliable wiring estimation is eliminated and costly iterations are reduced resulting in substantial reductions in tun time as well as a significant decrease in the clock periods.