Abstract: A method of generating a first performance-data-library (for a standard-cell-library) includes: for each standard cell that includes multiple gates, sorting the gates into groups including searching for matched ones amongst the gates (matched gates), grouping corresponding matched gates into corresponding multiple member-gates, and (for unmatched ones of the gates having no other matched gate (unmatched gates)), grouping the unmatched gates into corresponding single-member groups; for each standard cell, generating a corresponding first volume of performance data including, for each group, discretely calculating the first volume of performance data, mapping the volume of performance data to the subject gate in the group, and, for each multimember group, mapping the volume of performance data to non-subject gates; and basing the first performance-data-library at least in part on the first volumes of performance data.

Abstract: A method for automatically aligning a charge coupled device of a scanner by using a software contained in the scanner instead of physically aligning the charge coupled device is disclosed. The scanner comprises a charge coupled device (CCD) having an array of optic sensors for converting a reflected line image into an analog signal array, an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter for converting the analog signal array into an image data array, and a test region having a positioning mark in it. The method comprises the following steps of: (1) generating an image data array which comprises the image of the test region in it by using the CCD and the A/D converter; (2) identifying the positioning mark from the image data array; and (3) setting an effective scanning range which defines the start and stop positions of valid image data within the image data array according to the identified positioning mark.

Abstract: A method for positioning the initialization position of a light source for an image reading apparatus operated under a passing-light mode is provided. A platen including a reference area that provides a pattern disposed at a position x is provided. The method comprises a first step of positioning the scan model at the position x in order to read the pattern within the reference area. Secondly, the method moves the light source toward the reference area and, at the same time, triggers the scan module to scan the image. Thirdly, repeat the second step until the image scanned by the scan module meets a pre-determined criterion. Fourthly, the method makes the light source module further move a distance of .DELTA.D-.DELTA.d. The .DELTA.d is the distance traveled by the light source during an interval which begins at the capture of the pattern by the scan module and ends at the determination of the pre-determined criterion as being met.