Abstract: A computer-aided design system for compacting an integrated circuit layout with standard cell components is described. A data receiving device is used to process an integrated circuit layout that includes standard cell components. The integrated circuit layout is characterized by a circuit layout database with a cell table defining a set of cells that represent all spaces in the integrated circuit layout. The cell table includes connector cell data to indicate whether a cell forms a portion of a connected group of cells. The system includes an adjustment mechanism to align internal connectors of a standard cell with a routing grid associated with the integrated circuit layout. The system also includes a movement mechanism to position right-edge external connectors of a standard cell at a uniform routing grid coordinate position. The system uses the connector cell data to identify a power bus and a ground bus of each standard cell.