Gregory M. Schaeffer

Driver waveform computation for timing analysis with multiple voltage threshold driver models

This paper introduces an accurate and efficient electrical analysis of logic gates modeled as Multiple Voltage Threshold Models (MVTM) loaded by the associated interconnect. MVTMs formalize a class of gate models which include the existing industry standards, such as CCS and ECSM driver models as special cases. The analysis technique relies on primary MVTM characterization data and does not require explicit instantiation of controlled current source models. Therefore, the method is more accurate, efficient, and general than traditional transient analysis. The theoretical results are validated by detailed simulations and use within full chip timing analysis.

Constrained aggressor set selection for maximum coupling noise

In this paper, we consider the problem of selecting a set of aggressor nets that maximize crosstalk induced noise or delay pushout on a coupled victim net, under given logical constraints. We formulate the problem mathematically, and propose efficient Lagrangian Relaxation and network flow based approaches that guarantee an optimal solution. We also formulate and solve this problem while considering the noise susceptibility of the victimpsilas receiving gate. Experimental results show that the proposed approaches are run-time efficient by factors of up to 800times in comparison to an exhaustive search approach, and reduce timing pessimism by up to 36%.

Feasible Aggressor-Set Identification Under Constraints for Maximum Coupling Noise

In this paper, we consider the problem of identifying a feasible set of aggressor nets that would induce maximum crosstalk noise or delay pushout on a coupled victim net, under given logical constraints. We present a novel mathematical formulation of this problem and propose a Lagrangian relaxation-based approach for solving it efficiently and optimally. Experimental results show that the proposed approach is run-time efficient by a factor of up to 800 times in comparison to an exhaustive search approach and reduces timing pessimism by up to 36%. We also formulate and solve this problem while considering the noise susceptibility of the victims receiving gate.