Abstract: After automatic cell placement, the following steps are performed before performing automatic inter-cell routing. (S22) Estimated wires having Manhattan-length path are connected between same-node terminals of cells, and detected and counted is a crosstalk error that parallel-wire length is more than a predetermined value. (S23) The detected error is resolved by moving cells closely spaced less than a predetermined interval apart and connected to the error-detected estimated wires; the cell movement data is stored in a storage device; and such processes are repeated N times; and the cell placement data is modified on the basis of the cell movement data corresponding to the minimum value of error-count values of all the N times. (S24) If the minimum value is not 0, (S25) a buffer cell is inserted in the error-detected estimated wire.

Abstract: After automatic cell placement, the following steps are performed before performing automatic inter-cell routing. (S22) Estimated wires having Manhattan-length path are connected between same-node terminals of cells, and detected and counted is a crosstalk error that parallel-wire length is more than a predetermined value. (S23) The detected error is resolved by moving cells closely spaced less than a predetermined interval apart and connected to the error-detected estimated wires; the cell movement data is stored in a storage device; and such processes are repeated N times; and the cell placement data is modified on the basis of the cell movement data corresponding to the minimum value of error-count values of all the N times. (S24) If the minimum value is not 0, (S25) a buffer cell is inserted in the error-detected estimated wire.

Abstract: A catalyst for purifying exhaust gases comprises a catalyst carrier made of potassium titanate and a noble metal loaded on the catalyst carrier. The catalyst carrier is substantially free from alumina. This catalyst can oxidize at least hydrocarbons in exhaust gases at a high catalytic activity even at low temperatures, and at the same time can suppress SO.sub.2 from converting into sulfates. This catalyst does not employ substance like alumina exhibiting solid acidity as a catalyst carrier. Further, this catalyst can be used for purifying exhaust gases from diesel engines to suppress particulates and sulfates from being emitted, and to improve conversions of hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide.

Abstract: An exhaust gas purifying catalyst is characterized in that at least one kind of catalyst metal is loaded on a layered porous silica or a layered porous silica-metal oxide. The exhaust gas purifying catalyst is used as an oxidation catalyst for purifying hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide, or a reduction catalyst for purifying nitrogen oxides (NO.sub.x), which is suitable for purifying exhaust gases in automobiles. An exhaust gas purifying apparatus includes the above exhaust gas purifying catalyst and an absorbent for trapping hydrocarbon components, in which aromatic HC such as trimethylbenzene and the like are effectively trapped.